**Breaking News: Los Angeles Authorities Deploy ‘Less Lethal’ Weapons Amid Escalating Protests**
Los Angeles is on high alert as authorities clash with protesters in a tense standoff that has erupted into chaos. The city is witnessing a surge of demonstrations against immigration policies, and law enforcement has resorted to using “less lethal” weapons to control the crowds. Live images from downtown show officers deploying tear gas and rubber bullets as tensions rise and vandalism escalates.
A curfew is now in effect from 8 PM to 6 AM, with police warning that anyone found outside during these hours will face arrest. Mayor Karen Bass and Sheriff Jim McDonald have both called for peaceful protests, but confrontations have intensified, leading to multiple arrests and reports of violence against officers. As protesters throw rocks and other objects, the situation has rapidly deteriorated, prompting a swift response from law enforcement.
The LAPD and LA County Sheriff’s Department are not acting alone; additional support is coming from National Guard troops and local police departments across Southern California. The deployment of these forces aims to secure federal properties and maintain order as the protests spread nationwide, coinciding with a significant military parade in Washington, D.C.
The use of non-lethal weapons, including tear gas and rubber rounds, has drawn criticism and concern from many, as the line between peaceful demonstration and violent confrontation blurs. Officers are trained to manage these situations, but the unpredictable nature of crowds adds a layer of complexity to their tactics.
As the night unfolds, the stakes are high, and the situation remains fluid. Authorities are urging protesters to remain peaceful, but with emotions running high and the potential for violence looming, Los Angeles braces for what could be a long and tumultuous night. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.