A Los Angeles family in the Pico Union neighborhood is reeling after Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conducted a raid on their home Friday.
ICE Raid in Pico Union Sparks Community Outrage
What Happened?
- ICE agents broke the lock on a rear gate and forced their way into the home.
- Walls were damaged, doors were knocked down, and the house was searched.
- The agents detained an 18-year-old for missing an immigration court hearing.
- Family members claim he had no criminal record.
Marisela, a resident of the home, recalled:
“It happened in an instant. They surrounded the house and tore through everything.”
Community Advocates Condemn the Raids
Vladimir Carasco of CHIRLA (Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights) says:
“ICE and CBP are targeting people by name. If it’s not your name on a judge’s warrant, you don’t have to answer.”
Additional Raids:
- Mountain View Avenue
- 41st Street & Avalon Boulevard (Homeland Security detained at least one woman)
Immigration attorney Yanci Montes warns:
“People have the right to remain silent and refuse searches without a warrant signed by a judge.”
LAPD & City Leaders Respond to ICE Operations
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass’ office clarified:
“LAPD does not assist ICE with civil immigration enforcement and hasn’t for decades under Special Order 40.”
LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell added:
“Our officers were only present for traffic control during a separate human trafficking warrant.”
ICE spokesperson declined to provide details:
“Due to our operational tempo, we are not able to respond to rumors or specifics of routine daily operations.”
