Photo: phillyskater / iStock Editorial / Getty Images
A federal raid at a Home Depot in Pomona on Tuesday has sparked concern and outrage among community members and immigrant rights advocates. Witnesses reported that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents detained 15 to 20 day laborers in the store's parking lot. The operation, involving both marked and unmarked vehicles, occurred between 8:30 a.m. and 9:30 a.m., according to the Pomona Economic Opportunity Center.
The raid has drawn criticism from local advocacy groups, who argue that the laborers were unjustly targeted. Alexis Teodoro, a workers' rights director, described the incident as "unjust" and "immoral." Carlos, a day laborer who narrowly avoided detention, shared his emotional experience, stating, "We are human beings. We're only here to support ourselves and maintain our families" (KTLA).
Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis responded by directing the Los Angeles County Office of Immigrant Affairs to assist those affected. She emphasized her commitment to ensuring all residents are aware of their constitutional rights. The Pomona Police Department clarified that it was not involved in the operation and had no prior knowledge of the raid (Los Angeles Times).
ICE has not provided specific details about the operation, citing the agency's high volume of requests and operational tempo. Community groups continue to urge undocumented individuals to know their rights and have set up hotlines for support (ABC7).