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LAPD Ready To Deploy Everyone In Uniform If Pro-Trump Protests Get Violent
Pro-Trump supporters gather to face off anti-Trump demonstrators. (Brian Feinzimer for LAist)
The FBI has warned of possible armed protests around the country in support of President Trump in the coming days.
There are at least two pro-Trump protests planned for Saturday, one in Beverly Hills and one at L.A. City Hall.
The LAPD said it’s planned for increased activity during inauguration week and will have adequate resources to respond to "any situation."
Tthe department is prepared to go on tactical alert in the case of violence, said Capt. Stacy Spell, adding that everyone in uniform could be deployed if things get out of hand:
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"That means not just our patrol officers, but also anybody in detectives, administrative functions, any kind of investigative assignments."
The L.A. County Sheriff’s Department "remains prepared to peacefully manage any protests with the appropriate resources and personnel," a spokesman said in a statement.
In a video posted on YouTube, Sheriff Alex Villanueva said the department will "honor and defend" the public's right to peaceful protest, "but it has to be in a manner that does not harm our communities."
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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