Trump Authorizes ICE to Use Expanded Force Against Rioters Attacking Officers

President Donald Trump announced on Friday that federal immigration agents will now be given broader authority to respond to violent protests that obstruct immigration operations—particularly in Democratic-led areas like California.

His remarks came after surveying the damage from recent catastrophic floods in Central Texas. Trump addressed the incident that took place a day earlier in Ventura County, California, where anti-ICE demonstrators reportedly disrupted a federal raid on a marijuana cultivation site in Camarillo.

According to federal sources, demonstrators clashed with immigration agents, throwing rocks and damaging federal vehicles. At least one protester allegedly opened fire during the confrontation.

“I just returned from Texas and couldn’t believe the footage showing thugs launching bricks and rocks at ICE agents inside clearly marked federal vehicles,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “These brand-new vehicles were heavily damaged. Our officers should not have to tolerate this kind of disrespect.”

As a response, Trump directed border policy adviser Tom Homan and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to grant full authority to federal agents to stop their vehicles and detain any individual who attacks them—with force, if necessary.

“I’m giving full clearance,” Trump declared. “ICE agents are authorized to defend themselves however needed. I never want to see our law enforcement attacked on the road again. This order takes effect immediately—arrest and detain those responsible.”

This directive arrives amid ongoing disputes between the federal government and California officials over immigration enforcement. California has continued to reinforce its sanctuary city policies, often in direct conflict with federal immigration priorities.

On the same day, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass announced new measures to shield undocumented immigrants. During a press briefing, she revealed plans to issue guidance for city departments on how to handle encounters with federal immigration officials and to create emergency plans that align with the city’s sanctuary laws.

Bass also said that undocumented residents affected by surprise immigration raids will soon receive prepaid debit cards with financial support—funded not by taxpayers, but by donations from private philanthropic organizations.

“This executive order will help our city prepare for and respond to unpredictable immigration enforcement actions,” Bass stated. “It ensures our agencies know how to act while upholding our values of protecting vulnerable communities.”