Here’s What Marines and the National Guard Can (and Can’t) Do at LA Protests

As protests continue to unfold across Los Angeles in response to issues such as police brutality and systemic racism, many are wondering about the role of the military in maintaining order. Both Marines and the National Guard have been called in to assist with crowd control, but there are strict limitations on what they can and cannot do.

Marines, as members of the U.S. military, are subject to the Posse Comitatus Act, which prohibits them from engaging in law enforcement activities on American soil. This means they cannot make arrests, conduct searches or seizures, or otherwise act in a police capacity. Instead, their role is to provide support to civilian authorities and help maintain order without directly intervening in protests.

The National Guard, on the other hand, operates under a different set of rules. While they are also prohibited from acting as law enforcement, they can be called upon by state governors to assist with situations that exceed the capabilities of local police. This can include providing crowd control, securing key infrastructure, and assisting with disaster response.

Despite their respective roles, both Marines and the National Guard must adhere to the principles of proportionality, necessity, and humanity when responding to protests. This means using force only when absolutely necessary, minimizing harm to civilians, and respecting the rights of individuals to peacefully assemble and speak out.

It is important for both military personnel and civilians to understand these distinctions in order to prevent escalation and ensure that protests remain peaceful and productive. By working together and respecting each other’s roles and limitations, Marines, the National Guard, and protesters can hopefully find common ground and move towards positive change.

In conclusion, while Marines and the National Guard can provide valuable support during protests, it is essential that they do so within the boundaries of the law and with a commitment to upholding democratic values. By working together in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect, all parties can contribute to a safer and more just society for all.