The Pentagon’s deployment of about 700 Marines to Los Angeles to help the National Guard respond to immigration protests follows weeks of rapid developments in President Donald Trump’s signature domestic priority for mass deportations.

Large crowds gathered near a federal detention center in downtown Los Angeles Friday protesting immigration raids that had taken place throughout the city.

Lauren Tomasi, a 9News correspondent, was reporting live when an officer behind her suddenly raised their firearm and fired a nonlethal round at close range.

The Trump administration faces a legal challenge to its deployment of the military to protests. Tensions flared after President Trump sent troops, and protests spread to other U.S. cities.

Tonight' host criticized the president for sending National Guard troops and Marines into Los Angeles: "Why would you send troops if there is nothing for them to do?"

As the military presence ramped up in Los Angeles, communities are preparing for the largest protests against Trump since he took office.

The development comes a day after an appeals court temporarily blocked a judge’s order that directed President Trump to return control of the California National Guard.

Customs and Border Patrol confirmed it is providing "aerial support" to law enforcement efforts during the protests.