Carlsbad Police Investigate Man's Threats To Potential 'Rioters'

CARLSBAD, CA — Carlsbad police Thursday are investigating a man seen in a video threatening protestors in the city should they turn violent.

In a video and screenshots of messages circulating on social media, the man can be seen threatening violence during a purported three-day protest this weekend in Carlsbad.

"I know about a potential riot happening in Carlsbad this weekend," the text in the video states. "Anyone who wants to help protect the city from looters, robbers and riots, slide up! I got the info."

In the video, the man calls for a "gun squad" and encourages people to bring weapons, including guns, batons and mace.

"These looters and rioters need to watch out if they come for my city," the text in the video states.

"If I see looting and anarchy, I will pull triggers. Terrorists are now outnumbering police."

The city's spokesperson confirmed to Patch that the Carlsbad Police Department is aware of the threats as well as potential protests.

A number of people reported the threatening messages and video to Carlsbad police, prompting the department to issue a statement on Twitter.

"Thank you to all who have reported to us a video and messaging encouraging violence toward protestors. We are actively investigating," the department said on Twitter. "We take all threats of violence seriously and violence of any sort will not be tolerated."