A man was arrested by California Highway Patrol officers after allegedly engaging in destructive acts during a downtown Los Angeles protest sparked by immigration raids. Adam Palermo, 39, of Los Angeles, faces charges including assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer, after protesters took to the freeways in a massive demonstration against ICE's recent actions.
Last Sunday, the CHP responded to reports of over 1,000 individuals protesting on the 101 Freeway. Palermo is accused of hurling rocks at officers and patrol vehicles from an overpass above. The situation escalated when he allegedly lit an object on fire and dropped it onto a CHP patrol car, setting it ablaze, ABC7 reported. This attack forced officers, already dodging thrown rocks and bottles, to quickly extinguish the flames.
On the subsequent Friday morning, investigators, aided by the public, apprehended Palermo outside his home. Upon his arrest, evidence linking him to the crime was found at his residence. This incident comes amid tensions between law enforcement and demonstrators, as officers worked to clear protesters from blocking traffic and ensure safety, FOX 11 noted in their coverage of the events.
In the aftermath of the arrest, robust statements were made by state officials condemning the violence. "Violent and deliberate attacks on law enforcement will not be tolerated in California. Period," asserted Gov. Gavin Newsom, who has consistently voiced opposition to violent protests. Newsom expressed his gratitude for the "state investigators and law enforcement who tracked down this suspect," as conveyed by his press office and as seen in an official tweet "ASSAULT COPS, FACE CONSEQUENCES," FOX 11 reported.
The CHP has stated they plan to present the case to the L.A. County District Attorney's Office where formal charges will be filed. Alongside assault with a deadly weapon, additional charges for Palermo could include arson and vandalism, according to the information provided by the CHP and covered by CBS News Los Angeles.
