The City of Angels has too many ‘Diablos’
Michael Angel Alvarez, known as 'Diablo,' was arrested for possessing military-grade armor while serving as a 'Peace Ambassador' in Los Angeles. This incident raises concerns about the effectiveness of the program initiated by Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez, which aims to replace police with community members. Critics argue that allowing individuals with violent felony convictions to hold such positions undermines public safety efforts.
- ▪Michael Angel Alvarez, a.k.a. 'Diablo,' was arrested for possession of military-grade armor.
- ▪He was previously convicted of first-degree murder and served 24 years of a 50-year sentence.
- ▪The 'Peace Ambassadors' program was launched by Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez to promote community-based public safety.
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Opinion The City of Angels has too many ‘Diablos’ By CA Post Editorial Board Published May 30, 2026, 3:00 p.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results. Add The California Post on Google It’s not surprising that federal agents would find an armed gangster at MacArthur Park. What is shocking — perhaps — is learning that he’s on the city payroll as a “Peace Ambassador.” Michael Angel Alvarez, 41, a.k.a. “Diablo,” was arrested for possession of military-grade armor, which carries a potential five-year sentence. It’s not illegal for most people to own body armor in California — but it’s illegal for people who have been convicted of a violent felony. And “Diablo” fits the bill. He was convicted of first-degree murder in 2002 and sentenced to 50 years. He was released after 24 years.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at California Post.