DHS has released an update on a significant operation by U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at two marijuana grow sites in California. On July 10, federal law enforcement officers executed criminal warrant operations in Carpinteria and Camarillo, resulting in the rescue of at least 14 migrant children from potential exploitation, forced labor, and human trafficking. At least 361 illegal aliens were arrested during the operation.
The arrests included individuals involved in violent crimes. Among those apprehended were Roman Izquierdo, an illegal alien from Mexico with past convictions for kidnapping and attempted rape; Juan Duarte-Velasquez, also from Mexico, with convictions for rape and DUI; Jose Orellana from El Salvador with a DUI conviction and hit-and-run charges; and Adriana Gonzalez-Gonzalez from Mexico with multiple burglary convictions.
Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin commented on the operation: "At the California marijuana facilities, ICE and CBP law enforcement rescued at least 14 migrant children from what looks like exploitation, forced child labor, and potentially human trafficking or smuggling while facing assault and even gunfire. Our brave agents also arrested at least 361 illegal aliens—including criminals with convictions for rape, serial burglary, hit-and-run, and DUIs.”
During the operation, more than 500 rioters attempted to disrupt proceedings. Four U.S. citizens are being processed for assaulting or resisting officers. Additionally, vehicles were damaged, and one individual fired a gun at law enforcement officers. The FBI is offering $50,000 for information leading to the arrest of this individual.
The investigation into immigration violations and potential child labor issues continues.
