ICE immigration raids reported in Riverside and Central California

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents have reportedly conducted raids in Riverside County and Central California, causing significant concern among immigrant communities. In Riverside County, activists report that approximately 40 people were detained near Home Gardens Academy in Corona. Community members noted that some students witnessed the arrests of their parents, leading to fears regarding school safety and the ability to pick up children without encountering federal agents.

In Central California, increased enforcement actions have been linked to reduced school attendance and lower worker participation in Latino enclaves. Bishop Joseph V. Brennan of the Fresno diocese has criticized the “indiscriminate nature” of these raids, stating that congregations are being taken away abruptly with little information. Brennan emphasized that the Catholic Church will support vulnerable neighbors and called for meaningful immigration reform to protect human dignity.