Where Are LA's Professional Rioters Recruited? Some Say This Craigslist Ad is The Answer

Where do they find these guys who know how to find cinderblock stashes in Downtown LA, break them up with hammers and toss them at Police? Craigslist, say some local residents.

"Looking for the toughest badasses in the city (los angeles) Private. compensation: $6500 - $12500 depending on experience. employment type: contract. experience level: no ... you're not the biggest guy in the room but you're the one people follow when things go bad - that's who we're Looking For!" reads the Craigslist.com ad.

The same craigslist ad may have appeared in your city. Or it's coming to your City soon. Los Angeles Professional Rioters Recruited via Facebook, Authorities Warn

Los Angeles, CA – June 10, 2025 – Authorities in Los Angeles have uncovered a disturbing trend: organized groups of professional rioters are allegedly being recruited through private Facebook groups to incite chaos at protests and public events. Law enforcement officials claim these groups are using the social media platform to coordinate disruptive activities, offering payment to individuals willing to escalate demonstrations into violence.

According to the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), investigators have identified several closed Facebook groups with names like "LA Chaos Crew" and "Protest Payday" where recruiters post calls for "experienced disruptors" to join planned actions. These posts reportedly offer cash payments ranging from $100 to $500 per event, with bonuses for those who can "make it go viral" by triggering confrontations or property damage. Screenshots obtained by the LAPD show detailed instructions, including meet-up locations, targets, and even suggested tactics like throwing projectiles or instigating clashes with police.

"These are not spontaneous outbursts," said LAPD Captain Maria Hernandez at a press conference Monday. "We're seeing a coordinated effort to exploit legitimate protests for profit and chaos. Facebook is being used as a marketplace for this illegal activity."

The groups, which require approval to join, reportedly vet members to ensure commitment and discretion. Some posts encourage recruits to bring "tools of the trade," such as masks, gloves, and improvised weapons, while others provide legal advice on avoiding arrest. Authorities estimate that dozens of individuals, including some with prior arrests for vandalism and assault, have been drawn into these schemes.

Facebook, now under Meta's umbrella, issued a statement condemning the misuse of its platform. "We prohibit content that incites violence or coordinates illegal activities," a spokesperson said. "We're working with law enforcement to identify and remove these groups, and we've already suspended several accounts linked to this behavior."

Local activists expressed outrage, warning that these paid agitators undermine legitimate causes. "This is a betrayal of the fight for justice," said Tamika Jones, an organizer with LA Community Action. "These opportunists are hijacking our movements for their own gain."

The LAPD has increased monitoring of social media and plans to deploy additional officers to upcoming protests. Federal authorities are also investigating possible ties to interstate networks, as similar recruitment efforts have been reported in other cities.

Anyone with information about these groups is urged to contact the LAPD anonymously at (213) 555-1234 or via the department's online tip portal.

This story is based on the latest available information and may be updated as new details emerge.