LOS ANGELES (KTLA) — Several downtown Los Angeles businesses were looted and vandalized overnight as law enforcement worked to restore order following a weekend of protests that turned violent.
The crowds had mostly dispersed as of Monday morning, but streets are closed, and a heavy law enforcement presence is in place around several downtown federal buildings, where National Guard troops have been posted.
Graffiti could be seen on business after business, including the Los Angeles Times building, for several blocks.
Video recorded just after midnight showed individuals going in and out of a T-Mobile store on South Broadway after smashing through the glass front door early Monday morning.
Armed officers also responded to an Adidas store after reports of looting near 8th Street and Broadway. Some of the merchandise taken from the store had been recovered by law enforcement and could be seen on top of their vehicles.
One person was taken into custody following a physical altercation with officers, according to freelance media firm KNN.
Police have declared all of downtown Los Angeles an unlawful assembly area; however, a fourth day of protests is expected on Monday. There are early indications of a rally being scheduled for noon in Los Angeles’ Grand Park.
Organizers are expected to gather to demand the release of union leader David Huerta, who was taken into custody on Friday.
Police have reported 42 arrests after Sunday’s protests turned violent, including 19 by the California Highway Patrol, who were called to a demonstration that closed the 101 Freeway through Downtown Los Angeles for several hours.
Trump’s decision to bring in the National Guard has been heavily criticized by Democratic lawmakers, who claim the use of force may only make the situation worse.
Trump has responded by saying he is prepared to bring the U.S. Marines into Los Angeles if needed.
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