Los Angeles, CA – The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) declared an unlawful assembly on Sunday in parts of downtown Los Angeles, including Alameda Street, Los Angeles Street, Aliso Street, and sections of the 101 Freeway. The alert comes amid growing protests against ICE raids following President Donald Trump’s deployment of National Guard troops to major U.S. cities.
What Is an Unlawful Assembly Alert?
Under California Penal Code Section 407, an unlawful assembly occurs when two or more people gather with intent to disturb the peace or commit unlawful acts. LAPD declares such an alert when protest activity threatens public safety — for example:
- Blocking major roads
- Throwing objects
- Refusing police orders to disperse
Once the alert is in effect, LAPD officers can legally:
- Disperse the crowd within a set time
- Use non-lethal force if necessary
- Arrest individuals who fail to comply — punishable by up to 6 months in jail or a $1,000 fine
“An UNLAWFUL ASSEMBLY has been declared! Anyone on Alameda, Los Angeles St, Aliso St, or the 101 Freeway between Alameda and the 110 Freeway is subject to arrest,” LAPD announced on X (formerly Twitter).
Key Areas Affected
🔹 Alameda Street:
Tense scenes erupted near the ICE detention center, with protestors refusing to vacate the area even after police issued dispersal orders.
🔹 Los Angeles Street & Aliso Street:
Crowds gathered near federal buildings, prompting LAPD to declare an unlawful assembly at the intersection of Aliso and Alameda.
🔹 101 Freeway:
Protestors blocked all lanes at Spring Street, reportedly erecting makeshift barriers. This led to a tactical alert and a sweeping unlawful assembly declaration.
What This Means for Residents & Commuters
Motorists were urged to avoid the 101 Freeway and adjacent streets in downtown Los Angeles. Heavy police presence and detours are expected until the situation is under control.
The LAPD is continuing to monitor the protests and has warned of possible further alerts if demonstrations spread to other city areas.