Double Trouble: L.A. Home Depot Raided Twice in a Day as Critics Accuse ICE of Court Order Violation

Federal agents recently detained day laborers outside a Home Depot in Van Nuys during two separate operations, sparking concerns they may have violated a court order against racial profiling in immigration enforcement.

These raids happened early on a Friday morning. Maegan Ortiz, who leads a resource center for day laborers near the store, shared that agents targeted individuals outside the Home Depot. The Department of Homeland Security confirmed the arrests of seven undocumented immigrants, primarily from Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico.

Ortiz observed unmarked vans in the parking lot as agents began to detain people before checking their IDs. “It’s clear they are targeting day laborers and our organization,” she stated. Following this, another raid occurred in Cypress Park, resulting in multiple arrests.

In July, a U.S. district judge restricted federal agents in Southern and Central California from targeting individuals based on race or location without reasonable suspicion. Ortiz claims these recent operations contradict that order, which led her to label them as acts of contempt.

This court ruling had successfully decreased the number of undocumented immigrant arrests in Southern California. Yet, recent reports suggest a resurgence in immigration raids, including operations at a car wash in Lakewood and another Home Depot in Hollywood.

Amid public outcry, protests erupted in downtown L.A. over these actions. Mayor Karen Bass expressed concern, stating, “Rounding people up who are just trying to work doesn’t make anyone safer.” She is looking into whether these operations violate the temporary restraining order.

While Ortiz and community advocates raise alarms over the legality of these raids, some government officials stand firm in their defense. U.S. Border Patrol Chief Greg Bovino asserts that agents act within the law, focusing on individuals with significant criminal histories.

Recent data suggests most arrests do not stem from serious criminal backgrounds. In June, a review found that 68% of those detained by ICE had no prior criminal convictions.

As immigration enforcement continues to evolve, the debate over legality, ethics, and community safety becomes even more critical. The shift in tactics raises questions not just about policies but about how they affect the lives of ordinary people trying to make a living.

For further insights on immigration enforcement and community impacts, you can visit Human Rights Watch.

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