A Mexican illegal immigrant has been sentenced to four years in federal prison for throwing a Molotov cocktail at Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies during violent anti-ice protests in 2025. Emiliano Garduño Gálvez, 23, received the sentence from United States District Judge André Birotte Jr., who criticized him for endangering both the officers and other protesters with his actions.
The incident took place in Paramount during what the Department of Justice labeled as a “civil disorder,” involving acts of violence in which Gálvez participated. He was part of a large group that gathered in the area, and he threw the make-shift firebomb at the deputies, putting their lives at risk.
In a press release by the DOJ, First Assistant United States Attorney Bill Essayli condemned Gálvez’s actions, stating, “This defendant’s reckless behavior threatened the lives and safety of law enforcement officers and that of a lawful protester. My office remains steadfast in its efforts to prosecute and punish those who commit acts of violence against others.”
During the protest, Gálvez hid behind a stone wall and threw the Molotov cocktail towards the deputies who were on duty. The firebomb landed near a protester and approximately 15 feet from the deputies before Gálvez fled the scene. He was later apprehended and pleaded guilty to possession of an unregistered destructive device and obstructing, impeding, or interfering with law enforcement during a civil disorder.
Prosecutors argued in a sentencing memorandum that Gálvez’s actions were extremely dangerous, as the firebomb could have caused serious harm or even death. They highlighted the fact that the device came closer to injuring a civilian protester than Gálvez’s intended target, the sheriff’s deputies.
Gálvez had previously been deported from the US and was arrested twice in 2024. However, due to California’s sanctuary law, he was released back into the community. The sentencing of Gálvez serves as a stern warning against violent behavior and the endangerment of law enforcement officers and peaceful protesters during such events.
