Why an Omaha Food Plant Owner Who Followed Immigration Hiring Rules Got Raided: A Deep Dive into the Controversy

OMAHA, Neb. — Gary Rohwer, owner of Glenn Valley Foods, is frustrated after federal agents raided his food packaging plant. Over half of his employees were arrested, even though the company has been using the E-Verify system to ensure all workers are legally eligible to work.

Rohwer expressed shock at the raid. “We did everything we could possibly do,” he said. E-Verify lets employers quickly confirm if potential employees can legally work in the U.S. It’s a system used by big companies like Starbucks and Walmart, but many smaller businesses don’t use it. Critics argue that it can be easily bypassed with false documents.

The raid left Rohwer’s business operating at just 30% capacity as he struggles to find new workers. Federal officials believe that some employees might have used stolen identities to get around E-Verify, describing the system as “flawed.” Unfortunately, Rohwer says this doesn’t help his bottom line.

“I’d like to see the U.S. government create a clear program to help companies hire legitimate workers,” he said.

More than 70 people were taken away during the raid. One individual, a man from Honduras, allegedly assaulted federal agents during the arrest. This incident comes amid a heightened immigration enforcement effort by the current administration, which has reportedly mobilized additional military forces in response to public protests.

The raid has caused anxiety in the South Omaha community, where nearly a quarter of residents are foreign-born, according to the 2020 census. Local institutions like the Metropolitan Community College and nearby libraries temporarily closed, and many businesses on 24th Street shut their doors as fear spread. Douglas County Board of Commissioners Chairman Roger Garcia noted the economic impact: “When products aren’t sold and taxes aren’t collected, it affects all of us.”

An aunt of Garcia’s wife was among those arrested, and her family has yet to find out where she is being held. The timing of the raid coincided with the inauguration of newly elected Omaha Mayor John Ewing, leading some to speculate whether it was intentionally timed to overshadow his swearing-in. Ewing condemned the raid, stating, “We stand with our community.”

Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer reassured residents that his department wouldn’t act as immigration enforcers. “Our mission is public safety,” he said, emphasizing that community members should feel safe approaching the police.

This situation highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policy in the U.S. As recent surveys show, many Americans support a balanced approach that secures borders while also offering pathways to citizenship for undocumented workers contributing to the economy. The conversation around immigration continues to evolve, reflecting shifting societal attitudes.

In a world where communities are increasingly diverse, events like this underscore the importance of open dialogue and understanding between authorities and residents.

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