The LAPD ramped up its presence in Compton after a wave of fiery protests broke out in response to ICE immigration raids conducted Friday in Los Angeles.
Compton, a city long associated with crime, gang violence, and a turbulent history, once again finds itself at the center of national attention. In the ’80s and ’90s, its name became synonymous with street gangs and drug wars—images burned into pop culture through countless films and documentaries.
Fearing unrest, law enforcement launched a high-alert operation, deploying officers both on foot and by helicopter to patrol the city’s most active zones.
As we drove through the streets, tensions were palpable. Small crowds of residents had taken to the sidewalks, while officers stood watch, ready to shut down any potential flashpoints before
Compton is home to an estimated 93,000 residents and has experienced major demographic shifts over the past few decades.
While the city was once a predominantly African American community, recent census data shows that nearly 70% of the population now identifies as Hispanic or Latino, with African Americans making up about 30%. White, Asian, and other ethnic groups represent a small minority.
Photos/Brenda Rivera Mejia
This diverse population reflects the evolving identity of Compton, which remains a focal point for social and political activism in Los Angeles County. The recent anti-ICE protests are a reminder of the community’s ongoing struggles with immigration policies, policing, and public safety—all rooted in a complex history shaped by race, poverty, and systemic inequality. Violence could erupt.
