The vigilantes arming against Antifa: Residents carrying AR-15s and wearing bullet proof vests take to the streets 'to defend' neighborhoods and businesses

Residents armed with AR-15s and wearing bullet proof vests are taking matters into their own hands across America, coming out in force to defend businesses and stop widespread vandalism by looters. 

Heavily armed vigilantes wielding everything from bats to rifles have started appearing at protests in places including Philadelphia, Idaho, California and Chicago, threatening to take action if things turn violent in the absence of law enforcement.

In Minneapolis, neighborhood watch groups are springing up - in support of protests over George Floyd's death but in defense of businesses and homes being destroyed by looters as night falls. 

In many cases, the vigilantes want peace and are focused on protecting local residents and businesses from looters.