In a significant and unprecedented move, Marines deployed to Los Angeles temporarily detained a civilian on Friday, June 13, 2023. This incident marks the first known detention by active-duty troops sent to the city by President Donald Trump. The U.S. military confirmed the event after Reuters released images documenting the situation, which took place at the Wilshire Federal Building, where Marines were assigned to protect federal property amidst ongoing protests related to immigration raids.
According to reports, the Marines apprehended the individual, later identified as Marcos Leao, a 27-year-old Army veteran. Images showed the Marines restraining his hands with zip ties before transferring him to officials from the Department of Homeland Security. When questioned about the temporary detention, a spokesperson for the U.S. military's Northern Command stated that active-duty forces are permitted to detain individuals under specific circumstances. They emphasized that such detentions must end as soon as the individuals can be safely transferred to appropriate civilian law enforcement personnel.
After his release, Marcos Leao explained that he had been on his way to a Department of Veterans Affairs office when he accidentally crossed a yellow tape boundary. He expressed his understanding of the situation, stating, "They’re just doing their job." Leao, who gained his U.S. citizenship through his military service and is of Angolan and Portuguese descent, noted that he felt he was treated fairly during the incident.
The deployment in Los Angeles includes approximately 200 Marines and over 2,000 National Guard personnel, all tasked with the responsibility of protecting federal properties and personnel. Officials have indicated that this military presence will be bolstered by an additional 500 Marines and 2,000 National Guard soldiers. These troops are expected to accompany ICE agents during raids, a move that has raised concerns regarding military involvement in civilian law enforcement.
While the troops are authorized to detain individuals who may pose a threat to federal personnel or property, they are not permitted to carry out arrests independently. The Posse Comitatus Act generally prohibits the U.S. military, including the National Guard, from engaging in civilian law enforcement activities. However, there is speculation that President Trump could invoke the Insurrection Act, which would allow military troops to participate directly in civilian law enforcement if deemed necessary.
This incident reflects a significant moment in U.S. history, showcasing the controversial intersection of military presence and civilian law enforcement amid ongoing tensions related to immigration policies and civil rights. As the situation develops, the implications of military involvement in domestic affairs will continue to be closely monitored by both officials and the public.
Reporting by Omar Younis, Phil Stewart, and Idrees Ali; Editing by Leslie Adler and Sandra Maler.
