Pasadena City Hall (Photo – Graham).
The City of Pasadena, along with eight other public agencies across Southern California, filed a motion Tuesday to intervene in the federal lawsuit Vasquez Perdomo et al. v. Noem et al., challenging what the coalition describes as aggressive and unconstitutional immigration enforcement actions by the federal government.
By News Desk
The cities of Los Angeles, Culver City, Montebello, Monterey Park, Pico Rivera, Santa Monica, and West Hollywood, along with Los Angeles County, joined Pasadena in the legal action. The lawsuit seeks to halt federal immigration practices that have reportedly surged in Pasadena and the greater Los Angeles area in recent weeks, sparking widespread fear and disruption.
Pasadena officials reported an “unprecedented increase” in unannounced federal immigration activity that has left residents—many of whom are long-time community members and U.S. citizens—confused and frightened. The enforcement tactics have also had a chilling effect on the local economy, with some business owners and patrons choosing to stay home out of fear of being arbitrarily detained.
City officials emphasized the strain on local law enforcement, noting that Pasadena police have had to divert limited resources to determine whether individuals emerging from unmarked vehicles are federal agents or potential vigilantes.
“The federal government’s actions have created fear, confusion, and distress across our community,” the city said in a statement. “We believe these tactics are improper and unconstitutional.”
Pasadena and its co-filers are calling for an immediate end to the federal government’s current immigration enforcement strategy in the region.
“Pasadena remains fully committed to the dignity, well-being, and safety of all its residents,” the city said.
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