Man charged with felony for actions during L.A. immigration rally

A demonstrator was charged with a felony crime for allegedly throwing objects, including books, at cars on 101 Freeway during an immigration protest in Los Angeles last week, officials announced Monday.

The incident occurred around 11 a.m. on Feb. 3, as protesters took to an overpass near Spring Street above the 101 Freeway to speak out against President Trump’s crackdown on illegal immigration.

L.A. resident Martin Torres, 42, was accused of intentionally throwing objects at cars with intent to injure. At least one car was reportedly struck, but the extent of the damage was unknown; Torres also allegedly vandalized a freeway sign during the protest.

“Everyone has the right to express their views and engage in peaceful protest — that is fundamental to our democracy. But when actions cross the line into criminal behavior that endangers lives, my office will not hesitate to prosecute to the fullest extent of the law,” Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said.

Torres was charged with one felony count of throwing an object at a vehicle or an occupant of the vehicle with intent to do great bodily injury, and one felony count of vandalism over $400 in defacement with graffiti. The DA’s Office also stated that Torres had been previously convicted of serious or violent felonies.

“Throwing objects onto a busy freeway is not an act of protest; it is a reckless and dangerous crime that could seriously injure or kill innocent people,” Hochman said. “If you think you can throw books as part of a protest onto oncoming traffic you are wrong.”

Torres faces 7 years and 4 months in prison if convicted as charged. His bail was set at $775,000