Elpidio Reyna, an alleged violent rioter caught on video hurling rocks at moving Border Patrol vehicles during the Los Angeles anti-ICE riots, was arrested Wednesday while trying to enter the U.S. at the San Ysidro port of entry.
Federal authorities say the attack occurred on June 7 in Paramount, California, at the height of unrest sparked by immigration enforcement operations. In video released by U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli, Reyna—wearing what appears to be a motorcycle helmet—is seen picking up large rocks and throwing them at federal vehicles. One Border Patrol officer was injured in the assault.
Reyna, described by Essayli as a “dangerous felon,” is now facing a felony charge of assaulting a federal officer. He reportedly surrendered to authorities at the U.S.-Mexico border and was taken into custody by one of the officers whose vehicle was damaged in the attack. “That agent could have been killed in last month’s dangerous and reckless attack,” Essayli said.
Reyna is scheduled to make his initial federal court appearance Wednesday afternoon.
“To anyone who thinks they can attack federal officers and hide behind a mask or helmet, Reyna’s arrest today proves we can find and charge anyone who violates federal law,” said Essayli. “Don’t touch our officers.”
FBI Director Kash Patel echoed the sentiment, stating, “The FBI will never tolerate violence against those who serve and protect this country.” FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino added on X, “You may remember Elpidio Reyna, the subject who allegedly threw rocks at federal officers during immigration ops on June 7. We got him. Those who attack America’s police officers can run—but they can’t hide.”
The riots in Los Angeles lasted several days and were marked by violent clashes between protesters and law enforcement. In response, the Trump administration deployed 700 Marines and federalized approximately 4,000 National Guard troops to restore order—an action condemned by California officials including Governor Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass.
Governor Newsom filed a lawsuit challenging the deployment, arguing that federalizing California National Guard troops without his consent violated the Posse Comitatus Act, which restricts military involvement in domestic law enforcement. Though a federal judge initially sided with Newsom, an appeals court later overturned that decision, allowing the federal deployment to continue. A final ruling on the legality of the troop presence is expected in the coming weeks.
