NOTE: VIDEO AT THE END OF ARTICLE
Federal agencies are cracking down on more than just street-level chaos—now, they’re going after the money behind the mayhem.
In a joint video announcement released Tuesday, top federal officials warned that anyone found financially backing violent protests, including the recent anti-ICE riots in Los Angeles, could face serious criminal charges.
The video, posted by the FBI’s Los Angeles field office, featured statements from U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli, FBI Assistant Director Akil Davis, and IRS Special Agent Tyler Hatcher. While the trio emphasized that peaceful protest is a protected right, they made it crystal clear: funding violent unrest is not.
“We absolutely support peaceful assembly,” Essayli said. “But those who are using protests as a smokescreen for violence and lawlessness—and especially those financing it—will be held accountable.”
The warning follows the arrest of Alejandro Theodoro Orellana, accused of distributing tactical gear to suspected agitators. According to federal prosecutors, this is just one piece of a larger effort to disrupt the infrastructure enabling civil disorder in major cities.
The IRS is now involved, actively tracking financial activity linked to rioters. “Money fuels these operations,” said Hatcher. “Every transaction that aids violence is part of the problem.”
FBI official Akil Davis also highlighted ongoing investigations targeting individuals and groups accused of coordinating logistics, funds, and equipment for violent demonstrations.
“Those who think they can hide behind digital payments, shell groups, or social media anonymity—we’re tracking it all,” Davis warned.
The announcement came after violent scenes in Los Angeles involving freeway shutdowns, fires, and attacks on law enforcement during anti-ICE demonstrations. Despite official statements from local politicians insisting the situation was under control, police leadership has confirmed a far more chaotic reality on the ground.
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell described the unrest as “rapidly escalating,” noting that law enforcement faced concrete projectiles and saw government property set ablaze. Federal authorities stepped in after concerns about organized support for the destruction mounted.
The Department of Justice has not released the full number of individuals under investigation, but officials made it clear: arrests will continue—and they won’t stop with just those on the front lines.
If you’re funding the fire, the government is coming for you next.
