Supervisor Solis Condemns “Militarized” Immigration Tactics

People holding signs at a rally (Photo – Staff)

A wave of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations across Los Angeles County’s First District has sparked public outcry following reports of aggressive tactics, racial profiling, and threats to press freedom.

By News Desk

Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, Chair Pro Tem of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, issued a statement condemning what she called “deeply disturbing” actions by ICE agents. According to Solis, incidents were reported in several communities including Boyle Heights, East Los Angeles, Baldwin Park, West Puente Valley, and across the San Gabriel Valley.

Among the most alarming reports: ICE agents in two unmarked vehicles allegedly crashed into a civilian car carrying two children in Boyle Heights. Video footage cited by Solis shows agents deploying tear gas and forcefully apprehending an individual at the scene.

Further activity was confirmed at Whittier Narrows, where agents reportedly detained two individuals and attempted to detain a journalist, who was later released, without proper identification.

“Federal agents are targeting people based on their skin color and the type of work they do,” Solis said. “Day laborers, car wash workers, street vendors, and other essential workers… are being wrongfully profiled and even unlawfully detained.”

Solis warned that the escalated enforcement is instilling fear and trauma in immigrant communities and undermining public safety. In response, she introduced an emergency motion, approved on Tuesday by the Board of Supervisors, that directs immediate county action to support affected residents.

The motion includes expanding rapid response efforts, providing mental health and public benefit services, and developing multilingual outreach. It also initiates a review of County-owned properties to prevent their use in immigration enforcement and authorizes the County to join California’s lawsuit against the federal deployment of the National Guard.

“No one should have to live under the constant threat of militarized raids, racial profiling, and family separation,” Solis said. “Los Angeles County will not stand by. I will not stand by.”

Residents impacted by the ICE activity are encouraged to contact the County’s Office of Immigrant Affairs for support.