The state National Guard announced today that it will begin pulling out troops deployed to the Los Angeles area, including Long Beach, following days of peaceful protests against police brutality.
The Los Angeles Times first reported that the pullout could be completed later Sunday, with a small number of Guard members remaining to protect certain properties.
National Guard officials said while soldiers will begin transitioning to their home armories, a “quick reaction force” will stay in various locations across the state to “rapidly assist law enforcement if requested.”
“I am extremely proud of the professionalism and dedication to duty the soldiers and airmen of the Cal Guard exemplified on the streets of California protecting the first amendment rights of all citizens during these extremely trying times,” state National Guard Major Gen. David Baldwin said in a statement.
About 50 National Guard members have been providing support at COVID-19 testing sites throughout the city since early April, but on Sunday, May 31 more members were deployed to help police with looters and vandals and enforce curfews during the week.
Gov. Gavin Newsom mobilized more than 7,000 soldiers to help local law enforcement across the state following protests against the death of George Floyd.
Multiple protests have taken place in Long Beach over the pasts few days. None have turned violent since Sunday’s massive demonstration ended with looting across the city.
Soldiers have since been seen guarding buildings throughout Downtown.
— Stephanie Rivera (@StephRivera88) June 5, 2020
https://twitter.com/Stefan_BC/status/1268986270421643264?s=20