U.S. Customs and Border Protection will deploy agents across the country as riots have spread in the wake of George Floyd’s death.
A CBP spokesperson told the Washington Examiner on Sunday that the agency “is currently deploying officers, agents and aviation assets across the country at the request of our federal, state and local partners confronting the lawless actions of rioters.” Though CBP typically operates at the border, the spokesperson noted that the agency “carries out its mission nationwide, not just at the border, consistent with federal laws and policies.”
Acting Department of Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf said agencies such as the CBP will help with “surveillance and other capabilities.”
“These measures will help our personnel stay safe as they continue to protect us from those who spread this violence,” he said at a press conference. “Our nation is at its strongest when we confront challenges together and resist the voices that try to divide us.”
Nearly every major city in the country has faced riots and protests over the past week following the death of Floyd, an unarmed black man, in Minnesota last week. Footage went viral, showing now-former officer Derek Chauvin placing his knee on the back of Floyd’s neck as Floyd pleaded to let him breathe and lost consciousness. Chauvin and the three other officers present at the time of Floyd’s death have been fired, but only Chauvin has been charged. He faces charges of third-degree murder and manslaughter.
Though many protests began peacefully to demonstrate against police brutality, some escalated to dangerous riots with people looting, destroying businesses, and beating others over the weekend. So far, just under 1,700 people have been arrested in connection to the riots in 22 cities. The National Guard has also been activated to help contain rioters, and curfews have been implemented.
“Congratulations to our National Guard for the great job they did immediately upon arriving in Minneapolis, Minnesota, last night. The ANTIFA led anarchists, among others, were shut down quickly. Should have been done by Mayor on first night and there would have been no trouble!,” President Trump tweeted Sunday.
Congratulations to our National Guard for the great job they did immediately upon arriving in Minneapolis, Minnesota, last night. The ANTIFA led anarchists, among others, were shut down quickly. Should have been done by Mayor on first night and there would have been no trouble!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) May 31, 2020
