During a turbulent night of protests in Los Angeles, CNN national correspondent Jason Carroll experienced a startling interruption to his live broadcast when he was momentarily detained by police officers. The detention, which played out on live television Monday night, occurred as law enforcement sought to disperse demonstrators near federal buildings.
Carroll, a seasoned journalist, had just finished reporting from one of the protest zones when, without warning, he was restrained by police. CNN anchor Laura Coates was in the midst of a conversation with law enforcement analyst John Miller when Carroll's voice unexpectedly broke in, stating, "I am being detained." Coates immediately pivoted to address the unfolding situation, seeking to understand what was happening to her colleague.
Viewers watched as Carroll, clad in jeans and a black shirt, stood between two officers with his hands behind his back. The CNN camera crew captured the exchange as Carroll sought clarification, asking, "I'm not being arrested, correct?" An officer responded, reassuring him that he would be released but warned against returning to the area.
The confrontation de-escalated swiftly, with Carroll thanking the officer and then turning to explain the situation to the audience. He relayed that the officers had taken his information and escorted him out of the area. Before he could complete his explanation, an off-camera voice identified as Chris from The New York Times offered assistance, stating they had video of the incident.
Following the interruption, Carroll continued his report until his audio feed was cut. Back in the studio, Miller provided context, emphasizing the growing challenge for officers to manage protests due to some individuals falsely claiming to be press while engaging in criminal activity.
CNN later issued a statement confirming the brief detainment, clarifying that the issue was resolved after the reporting team presented proper credentials. The network's encounter was not an isolated event; a New York Post photographer and an Australian journalist had also been injured while covering the protests.
The demonstrations in Los Angeles were a response to recent ICE enforcement actions targeting illegal immigration. As tensions escalated near federal properties, the Trump administration dispatched National Guard units to the city.
The incident involving Carroll has drawn significant attention, raising concerns about the safety and freedom of the press during civil unrest.
