The University of California Police Department (UCPD) is utilizing tactics similar to those seen on January 6 to investigate the vigilantes who attacked the UCLA “encampment” on April 30. According to reports, approximately 100 vigilantes assaulted the encampment and were met with resistance. The police took a long time to respond to the situation, as the encampment had been harassing Jewish students on campus for almost a week, using antisemitic language and physical violence.
Despite being instructed not to disturb the encampment, UCPD eventually intervened after the overnight altercation, leading to the removal of the encampment the following night. Mayor Karen Bass and UCLA Chancellor Gene Block pledged to hold the vigilantes accountable for their actions, which were condemned by President Joe Biden as antisemitic.
The UCPD is now engaged in a significant investigation using advanced techniques, including facial recognition tools, to identify the attackers. This approach mirrors the methods used in the January 6 Capitol riot investigation. Pro-Palestinian activists at the encampment feel that the police were slow to act and favored the vigilantes, although it is implied that authorities were hesitant to intervene initially.
Overall, the UCPD’s investigation into the UCLA incident represents a significant effort to hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions, utilizing modern technology and methods to ensure justice is served.
