LA Car Wash Owner Fights Back: $50 Million Lawsuit Following ICE Raid Detention and Assault

A 79-year-old car wash owner in Los Angeles is demanding $50 million from the federal government after an immigration raid left him injured and traumatized. Rafie Ollah Shouhed, a U.S. citizen, claims he was violently tackled to the ground and detained for nearly 12 hours.

His attorney, V. James DeSimone, describes the situation as a severe violation of Shouhed’s rights. The agents involved are accused of being reckless and cruel. “If this can happen to a senior citizen who committed no crime, it can happen to anyone,” DeSimone stated. He argues that such actions threaten our democracy.

This incident comes amid an uptick in immigration enforcement under the Trump administration, especially after recent Supreme Court decisions that lifted restrictions on raids. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced plans to intensify operations in Los Angeles, declaring that they’re ready to “flood the zone.”

Many U.S. citizens have been swept up in these raids. For example, a mother of a 15-year-old American boy is seeking $1 million in damages, accusing federal agents of false imprisonment and racial profiling.

Shouhed’s ordeal began on September 9, when masked agents entered his car wash. Video footage shows an agent pushing him down. Shouhed had gone outside to show proof that his employees were authorized to work. Instead of receiving help, he faced aggression. Agents tackled him to the ground and handcuffed him, ignoring his pleas for medical attention due to a previous heart surgery.

Shouhed was held at a detention center despite being a citizen and remained there even after agents confirmed his status. His attorney noted that he wasn’t allowed to contact his family.

Once released, Shouhed was hospitalized for serious injuries, including broken ribs and a traumatic brain injury. Photos document significant bruising on his arms from the altercation. In an interview, he expressed disbelief about the harsh treatment he received, questioning why such things happen in a country he thought was fair and just.

The DHS claimed that Shouhed interfered with their operation, which led to his arrest. However, he was never charged with any crime. DeSimone highlighted the dangers of such aggression, noting that Shouhed could have faced life-threatening consequences during the incident.

This incident raises important questions about immigration tactics and civil rights in the U.S. While the DHS insists they are enforcing the law, many argue that methods like these undermine trust within communities. Proper enforcement should prioritize dialogue and safety rather than intimidation and violence.

For further information about civil rights and government actions in this context, you can refer to the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).

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