DOJ Warns U.S. Attorneys to Prepare for Potential Violence at Nationwide ‘No Kings’ Protests
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued a nationwide advisory to its 94 U.S. Attorney’s Offices, instructing them to be prepared for possible criminal investigations stemming from planned mass protests set to take place across the country on Saturday, targeting the Trump administration’s policies.
The protests, organized under the “No Kings” banner, are expected to draw thousands of demonstrators in cities and towns nationwide. Organizers have positioned the day as a coordinated stand against what they describe as authoritarianism in the Trump administration.
A DOJ spokesperson emphasized the department’s support for peaceful protest while drawing a firm line against criminal activity.
“As we’ve said repeatedly, the Department respects the right to peacefully protest and assemble to engage on important issues. However, the Department and its 94 U.S. Attorney Offices will not tolerate unlawful violence and destruction of property,” the statement read.
The protests are scheduled to coincide with a large military parade in Washington, D.C., commemorating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and Flag Day. However, critics—along with the No Kings movement—have claimed the parade is actually a political showcase for President Donald Trump, who turns 79 on Saturday.
The No Kings website describes the event as “a made-for-TV display of dominance” meant to honor Trump, framing the nationwide protest as a declaration of democratic resistance.
“From city blocks to small towns, from courthouse steps to community parks, we’re taking action to reject authoritarianism—and show the world what democracy really looks like,” organizers wrote. “The flag doesn’t belong to President Trump. It belongs to us.”
Federal officials are especially on alert following several nights of unrest in Los Angeles and New York City, where anti-ICE protests escalated into riots, including property destruction, clashes with law enforcement, and arrests.
Photos from Los Angeles showed burning vehicles, clashes between riot police and demonstrators, and individuals waving foreign flags amid the chaos. The Department of Justice is concerned that similar violence could erupt during this weekend’s demonstrations.
“No Kings is a nationwide day of defiance,” the group’s website proclaims. “We’re not watching history happen. We’re making it.”
The DOJ has instructed U.S. Attorneys to remain vigilant and ready to pursue federal charges if any of the demonstrations result in criminal behavior, including destruction of federal property or assaulting law enforcement officers.
Meanwhile, President Trump has issued a warning to potential demonstrators, vowing that any threats to public safety during Saturday’s parade or other events will be “met with very big force.”
With input from Fox News
