Texas Gov. Greg Abbott says he will deploy National Guard troops amid ICE protests
As protests continue in Los Angeles and around the U.S. over immigration enforcement raids, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said he will deploy the state's National Guard as needed "to ensure peace & order."
On Tuesday night, Abbott posted that he's planning to send the Texas National Guard to different parts of the state ahead of planned protests.
"Texas National Guard will be deployed to locations across the state to ensure peace & order. Peaceful protest is legal. Harming a person or property is illegal & will lead to arrest. @TexasGuard will use every tool & strategy to help law enforcement maintain order," Abbott wrote.
The governor's press secretary didn't specifically confirm that San Antonio is where Abbott is sending troops, but that they will be prepared as needed.
Possible immigration protests in San Antonio
San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg and San Antonio Police Chief William McManus both said the city has a plan to support peaceful demonstrations while ensuring public safety, alluding to a planned protest Wednesday night at the Alamo and another planned for Saturday.
"The State of Texas stands ready to deploy all necessary personnel and resources to uphold law and order across our state," Abbott's press secretary said. "Texas National Guard soldiers are on standby in areas where mass demonstrations are planned in case they are needed. Peaceful protests are part of the fabric of our nation, but Texas will not tolerate the lawlessness we have seen in Los Angeles. Anyone engaging in acts of violence or damaging property will be swiftly held accountable to the full extent of the law."
McManus said he has not been in contact with the Texas National Guard and that the police department is preparing for the worst and hoping for the best when it comes to the protests.
"The San Antonio Police Department fully supports the right to peacefully demonstrate," McManus said Wednesday morning.
12 arrested in Austin demonstrations against ICE raids
On Monday, hundreds of demonstrators took to Austin in protest of the ICE raids. This left four Austin police officers injured and a total of 12 people arrested.
"Exercise your right to free speech but keep it lawful and peaceful," Nirenberg said.
Dallas immigration protest draws hundreds
In Dallas, a protest that drew hundreds to a rally on a city bridge lasted for several hours Monday night before police declared it an "unlawful assembly" and warned people to leave or face possible arrest.
"[The Texas National Guard] will use every tool & strategy to help law enforcement maintain order," Abbott said.
