AUSTIN (KXAN) — Monday night, Austin protestors joined others in cities nationwide speaking out against federal immigration enforcement policy and President Donald Trump’s sending troops to Los Angeles amid ongoing protests there.
“We have a whole bunch of immigrant parents right here working hard every day, supporting families, paying taxes,” one of those Austin protestors told KXAN.
But that protest resulted in at least 13 arrests, several police officers being injured and a federal building vandalized.
As we head into a weekend where additional protests are planned in our city and across the country, Austin leaders are asking for thoughtful and peaceful demonstrations.
“Protest, speak out, but don’t become a tool of the chaos, don’t become a tool of the fear or the negative activity. Don’t be a player in someone else’s theater production,” Austin Mayor Kirk Watson said.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis said APD will be fully staffed this weekend and that she’s already touched base with the Travis County District Attorney and Sheriff.
“We have spoken about charges and about jail space that may be needed if we do need to make arrests. Again, that is not something that we want to do, I want to support peaceful protest,” she said.
Davis said APD will be using drones — which they also did Monday — and have “dialogue policing” officers out in vests helping people understand the rules, and serving as a point of contact for protestors who need to report bad actors.
“With unlawful behavior we go and we remove them immediately. And the protest can peacefully continue,” Davis said.
After autonomous vehicles were set on fire in Los Angeles last weekend, Waymo said it’s taking precautions in Austin and other cities as well.
“We are still operating and serving riders in ATX, but have limiting trips in certain areas. We are aware of potential protests and will not be providing service in the areas where protesters may be gathering, out of an abundance of caution,” a spokesperson said.