President Donald Trump announced on Friday that he has granted federal immigration agents “Total Authorization” to defend themselves following clashes with protesters during an enforcement operation at a California cannabis farm.
While traveling from Texas to Washington—where he toured areas affected by devastating floods that have claimed at least 120 lives—Trump posted a detailed message on Truth Social addressing the violence directed at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.
“I am on my way back from Texas, and watched in disbelief as THUGS were violently throwing rocks and bricks at ICE Officers while they were moving down a roadway in their car and/or official vehicle,” he wrote on Truth Social.
“Tremendous damage was done to these brand new vehicles. I know for a fact that these Officers are having a hard time with allowing this to happen in that it shows such total disrespect for LAW AND ORDER,” he continued.
“Therefore, I am directing Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, and Border Czar, Tom Homan, to instruct all ICE, Homeland Security, or any other Law Enforcement Officer who is on the receiving end of thrown rocks, bricks, or any other form of assault, to stop their car, and arrest these SLIMEBALLS, using whatever means is necessary to do so,” Trump wrote.
“I am giving Total Authorization for ICE to protect itself, just like they protect the Public. I never want to see a car carrying a Law Enforcement Officer attacked again! AUTHORIZATION IMMEDIATELY GRANTED FOR ARREST AND INCARCERATION,” the president added.
Federal authorities carried out raids on families at Glass House Farms in Camarillo and Carpinteria. During the operation, tear gas was deployed, and reports emerged of objects being thrown at agents. The United Farm Workers reported that one worker died from injuries sustained during the incident, but the administration provided further clarification on what actually happened.
“This man was not in and has not been in CBP or ICE custody,” DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin told Fox News Digital. “Although he was not being pursued by law enforcement, this individual climbed up to the roof of a greenhouse and fell 30 feet. CBP immediately called a medevac to the scene to get him care as quickly as possible.”