Written by Betsalel Shafa

City Administrative Officer Matt Szabo reported at least $19.7 million in protest-related costs through June 16. This includes $16.9 million in LAPD expenses, with the majority coming from LAPD overtime spending, which reached $11.7 million, as officers secured protest sites and managed daily demonstrations triggered by the June 6 fashion district raids. Repairs to City Hall, LAPD headquarters, and other municipal buildings have cost about $780,601 following vandalism and cleanup operations. Officials warn that officer vacancies and low morale within the LAPD will worsen staffing shortages and drive public safety spending higher throughout LA. This is growing as more than 575 protesters have been arrested in downtown Los Angeles demonstrations. This will likely result in more protests and increased damages and use of city resources. Protests have been rising, due to the “No Kings” protest a few days back, and a rift between protesters and the Trump admin has been evident. These issues are growing as California is struggling with these protests while trying to keep the federal government from intervening to help.