Rocks flew, and a federal officer was injured in Los Angeles, as anti-ICE protests turned violent on June 7, 2025.
During a heated demonstration in Paramount, California, suspect Elpidio Reyna allegedly hurled rocks at law enforcement vehicles, sparking a federal manhunt led by the FBI, reported Fox News. The incident, captured on video, left government property damaged and a federal officer hurt. It’s a stark reminder that protests, however passionate, don’t excuse endangering lives.
At approximately 3:30 p.m. on Alondra Blvd., Reyna’s alleged actions escalated tensions during the anti-ICE rally. The FBI swiftly identified him as the perpetrator, with U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli confirming his identity. Actions have consequences, and Reyna’s alleged rock-throwing has landed him in the federal crosshairs.
The FBI didn’t waste time, announcing a $50,000 reward for information leading to Reyna’s arrest. By Monday, June 9, 2025, authorities were executing a search warrant at his residence. No one’s above the law—not even those hiding behind a cause.
Attorney General Pam Bondi, speaking on “Hannity” that same day, declared, “The FBI has identified him.” She emphasized that Reyna’s name was now public, and a search was underway. The message is clear: you can’t outrun justice.
“That guy has just been identified, and they are doing a search warrant on his house, as we speak,” Bondi added. Reyna’s been slapped onto the FBI’s Most Wanted list, branded armed and dangerous. It’s a bold move, but when you assault an officer, boldness is what you get in return.
FBI Director Kash Patel didn’t mince words, stating, “If you assault a law enforcement officer, you’re going to jail—period.” His stance reflects a no-nonsense approach to protecting those who serve. Local inaction won’t stop the feds from stepping in.
Patel doubled down on X, writing, “Doesn’t matter where you came from, how you got here, or what movement speaks to you.” He vowed the FBI would back law enforcement, even if local jurisdictions falter. It’s a promise that resonates with those tired of selective enforcement.
“If the local police force won’t back our men and women on the thin blue line, we @FBI will,” Patel posted. This isn’t just rhetoric—it’s a federal commitment to law and order. Excuses don’t cut it when officers are under attack.
Bondi, addressing reporters outside the White House on May 7, 2025, warned, “As President Trump said: ‘You spit, we hit.’” She clarified that spitting on federal officers carries a five-year maximum prison sentence. It’s a vivid reminder that even minor aggressions face serious consequences.
“If you spit on a federal law enforcement officer, we are going to charge you with a crime federally,” Bondi said. The policy is straightforward: Disrespect law enforcement, and you’ll face federal charges. No one gets a free pass.
Looting, another crime highlighted by authorities, carries a hefty 20-year maximum penalty in California under the Hobbs Act. Federal prosecutors can also target those throwing Molotov cocktails. These aren’t slaps on the wrist—they’re sledgehammers of justice.
Bondi’s fiery rhetoric continued: “If you assault a police officer, if you rob a store, if you loot, if you spit on police officers, we’re coming after you.” The federal government’s stance is unyielding. Chaos won’t be tolerated, no matter the cause.
“You can run, you can’t hide,” Bondi warned, praising the FBI’s “great police work” in identifying Reyna. Her words underscore a broader truth: technology and tenacity make evasion nearly impossible. Hiding behind a protest doesn’t shield you from accountability.
The pursuit of Reyna signals a broader crackdown on violence masquerading as activism. While protests are a right, injuring officers and destroying property crosses a line. The FBI’s response proves that law enforcement won’t bow to mob tactics, ensuring justice prevails.
