The FBI arrested Alejandro Theodoro Orellana, a 29-year-old California man, early Thursday morning for allegedly distributing police-style face masks to protesters in Los Angeles earlier this week.
U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli announced the arrest on X, stating Orellana faces charges of conspiracy to commit civil disorder. Essayli emphasized the swift efforts to identify and apprehend those involved in organizing or supporting civil unrest in Los Angeles.
Federal officials referenced Fox 11 news footage from Tuesday, which appears to show Orellana handing out riot police-style face shield masks from a black pickup truck surrounded by demonstrators. Another individual is seen distributing water bottles from the truck’s bed.
Orellana has yet to appear in federal court, and details about his legal representation or intended plea remain unknown.
Neighbors reported the early morning arrest involved flash bang grenades and strict instructions to stay indoors. A resident told KTLA they had no prior negative knowledge of Orellana, describing him as an ordinary member of the community.
The arrest comes amid ongoing criticism of federal agencies, particularly ICE, for using face masks during immigration enforcement operations. Some Democrats have likened masked federal agents to secret police, while Republicans defend the practice as necessary for agent safety amid increased assaults.
U.S. Attorney Essayli has asserted that the Los Angeles unrest appears to be coordinated, well-funded, and orchestrated, promising further arrests. In a June 8 Truth Social post, Essayli called for the arrest of “people in face masks.”
Meanwhile, Republican Senator Marsha Blackburn has introduced legislation aimed at making doxxing law enforcement personnel illegal. Following protests related to pro-Palestine demonstrations, several universities have also banned face masks at protests to prevent concealment.
