Bracelets with Altadena’s zip code were passed out to some attendees at the remembrance event on Jan. 7, 2026 (Photo – W.K.)
State Senator Sasha Renée Pérez (D-Pasadena) criticized recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in Altadena, calling it a “deeply troubling moment” and accusing federal authorities of targeting immigrant communities during a time of mourning.
By News Desk
In a statement, Pérez said ICE agents returned to Altadena on the one-year anniversary of the deadly Eaton Fire, coinciding with a community gathering to remember the 19 people who lost their lives in the disaster. She described the timing of the enforcement action as a “desecration” of a sacred moment and said the raid created fear and chaos in the community.
“These chaotic raids are never justified,” Pérez said, adding that it was especially cruel to target individuals who are helping the community recover and rebuild from the fire.
Pérez also addressed the arrest of Pasadena community leader Jose Madera, who she said was detained while monitoring ICE activity. She linked that arrest to the death of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis, who Pérez said was fatally shot by federal agents while monitoring similar activity.
“The public has the right to monitor and record law enforcement activity without threat of prosecution, as long as they do not interfere with operations,” Pérez said.
The senator placed blame on the Trump administration, accusing it of emboldening federal agents to break the law and deprive individuals of their civil rights. She emphasized California’s commitment to its immigrant communities, describing immigrants as vital to the state’s cultural fabric and economic success.
Pérez said she will continue to speak out against immigration raids and pursue legislation, including the SAFE Act and the No Vigilantes Act, to hold the federal administration accountable and enforce transparency, decency, and the rule of law.
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