A Justice Department unit designed to de-escalate tense situations during protests was disbanded during the Trump administration, a decision now drawing renewed scrutiny as over 1,000 protests are planned across the country on January 10th and 11th. The unit, informally known as the "peacemaker" team, comprised specialized mediators and conflict resolution experts.

The timing of the planned protests coincides with heightened tensions stemming from two recent shootings by federal immigration enforcement agents. Organizers are using the demonstrations to voice concerns about immigration policies and demand accountability for the shootings. The planned protests span numerous states, reflecting widespread discontent.

The DOJ's Civil Rights Division created the unit in 2015 to provide on-the-ground support to local law enforcement and communities during periods of civil unrest. Its role involved assessing potential flashpoints, facilitating dialogue between law enforcement and community leaders, and deploying trained mediators to diffuse tense situations before they escalated into violence. The unit responded to protests in Ferguson, Missouri, Baltimore, Maryland, and other cities experiencing unrest.

In 2020, then-Attorney General William Barr ordered the unit’s dissolution, arguing that its efforts were redundant and that local law enforcement agencies were better equipped to handle protest-related situations. Critics at the time, including former DOJ officials, contended that the unit’s specialized expertise was valuable in preventing escalation and protecting civil rights. The decision to dismantle the unit was made amidst a surge in nationwide protests following the death of George Floyd.

The upcoming protests are expected to draw significant attention, and law enforcement agencies are preparing for potential disruptions. The focus remains on ensuring public safety while protecting the right to peaceful assembly. The potential for escalation is a key concern given the charged atmosphere surrounding the recent shootings and the absence of the specialized DOJ unit.