""The record is replete with evidence that Task Force 51 executed domestic law in these prohibited ways," Breyer wrote in a 52-page ruling. He said the troops had set up traffic blockades to aid federal agents they were mixed with. "Bystanders at multiple locations and even federal officials at trial were unable to distinguish Task Force 51 troops from federal law enforcement agents.""
"He cited as another example when Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth ordered guard troops to patrol MacArthur Park as a show of force for the federal presence. Breyer ruled in June that the guard deployment was illegal on other grounds but was immediately overturned by an appeals court panel of judges that allowed Trump to maintain control of the troops. Trump had said he sent the troops in to stop a rebellion and to prevent protesters from blocking immigration agents."
District Judge Charles R. Breyer ruled that National Guard troops deployed to Los Angeles, Task Force 51, performed prohibited domestic law enforcement functions in violation of law. Breyer's 52-page ruling said the troops set up traffic blockades that aided federal agents and were mixed with federal law enforcement, making them indistinguishable to bystanders and some federal officials. Breyer cited an order from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth directing guard patrols of MacArthur Park as a show of force. Breyer delayed implementation of the ruling until Sept. 12 to permit possible appeal. A prior June ruling had been overturned by an appeals panel. The administration said troops were sent to stop a rebellion and prevent protesters from blocking immigration agents; California officials disputed the rebellion claim and said local police could have handled the situation.
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