As five demonstrators are charged with serious offenses, including violence against police and property destruction during anti-ICE protests, federal agents crack down on those funding the riot in Los Angeles. Adam Palermo, the ringleader, could be charged with nearly ten years in state prison and up to twenty years in federal prison. Government grants may be misused by activist groups like CHIRLA, which received $34 million in funding, according to concerns expressed.
Federal Agencies Target Violent Protesters and Their Financial Backers
Los Angeles prosecutors have filed serious charges against multiple individuals involved in violent anti-ICE demonstrations as federal agencies launch a coordinated effort to identify and disrupt the financial networks supporting the unrest. The joint FBI and IRS investigation represents a significant escalation in law enforcement’s response to riots that have plagued the city with assaults on officers, property destruction, and widespread looting. The investigation focuses not just on the individual perpetrators but on uncovering who is bankrolling the violence.
Among those charged is Adam Palermo, 39, who faces the most severe consequences with both state and federal charges for assault, arson, and vandalism. Prosecutors allege Palermo was a key instigator in attacks against law enforcement. If convicted, he could face nearly 10 years on state charges and up to 20 years on federal charges. William Rubio, 23, has been charged with assaulting police officers using fireworks and could be sentenced to more than eight years in prison if found guilty.
🚨 JUST IN: The FBI and IRS announced they’ve teamed up to track down and ARREST those who are funding the Los Angeles riots
GOOD!
As soon as the funding’s cut off, these riots will STOP. Do this all throughout the country! 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/UATFeRCJqX
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) June 17, 2025
Law Enforcement Officials Condemn Criminal Activity
Federal prosecutors are making clear distinctions between legitimate protest and criminal behavior as they pursue cases against the most violent offenders. The focus on financial backers represents an acknowledgment that organized networks may be supporting the unrest. Three additional suspects face serious charges: Terrell Tillis, 30, for illegal gun and ammunition possession; Eddie Baldwin, 39, for allegedly looting an Apple store; and Antonio De La Rosa, 44, for pointing a laser at a police helicopter.
“This group wanted to commit crimes. They looked at the protests as a cover, an opportunity to go ahead and ply their illegal trade and commit a whole variety of crimes that, in many ways, has done a huge disservice to the legitimate protesters out there.” – Mr. Hochman
IRS Special Agent Tyler Hatcher emphasized the broader impact of funding illegal activities, stating that each dollar directed toward these operations fuels violence throughout communities. The federal investigation aims to identify and dismantle financial networks that support criminal activities, with authorities promising severe consequences for those providing resources to the rioters. The case of Alejandro Orellana, charged with conspiracy to commit civil disorder for providing face shields to agitators demonstrates authorities’ willingness to prosecute those who provide material support.
🚨 BREAKING: The FBI will now work with the IRS to find out and arrest people who funded Los Angeles riots and attacks on law enforcement.
FAFO time.
They are now TRACING THE MONEY. pic.twitter.com/J9nhluAbef
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) June 17, 2025
Questions Raised About Organizational Funding
The investigation has raised concerns about potential misuse of government funds by organizations possibly connected to the unrest. Senator Josh Hawley has called for an investigation into the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA), which reportedly received $34 million in government grants through 2023. Questions are being raised about whether taxpayer dollars meant for immigrant services may have instead supported violent demonstrations and criminal activity.
Federal agencies are also investigating potential foreign influence in the riots. U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli, FBI Assistant Director Akil Davis, and IRS Special Agent Tyler Hatcher have formed a united front to address these concerns, with Davis stating that the investigation is actively tracing money to determine funding sources. Law enforcement has made over 575 arrests related to the protests, mostly for curfew violations or failure to disperse, but is now focusing on the more serious offenders and their backers. The FBI is seeking public assistance with information related to the riots.