East Los Angeles community faces increased ICE activity during cultural celebrations

Community members in East Los Angeles are reporting increased activity from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during local events. Centro CSO members distributed 'know your rights' information at a Día de los Muertos cultural event at Belvedere Park Lake to address reports of agents operating from unmarked vehicles and chasing individuals through the park.

Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna confirmed that multiple individuals have been taken by ICE following their release from the East Los Angeles Sheriff's Station. Local activists from Centro CSO have criticized the sheriff's department, alleging that the station is facilitating ICE operations. During a recent community walk, the sheriff's station was reportedly closed to the public as deputies established a perimeter.

This activity coincides with ICE's 'Operation Safe California,' which reportedly began in San Diego on October 1.