by Federal immigration agents arrested 37 people in coordinated raids across multiple Home Depot store locations in Los Angeles County on June 30, the Department of Homeland Security confirmed Saturday.
The arrests—many of which targeted day laborers and undocumented workers—have sparked community outrage, protests, and calls for accountability from local officials and advocacy groups.
Operation Overview:
- Conducted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
- 37 people arrested on June 30 at three Home Depot parking lots.
- Targeted locations:
- Figueroa Street: 14 undocumented individuals arrested.
- North Hollywood: 11 arrested.
- Sunset Boulevard: 12 arrested.
Criminal Records Noted:
- DHS stated those detained had various criminal histories including:
- Drug trafficking
- Firearm offenses
- Theft and forgery
- DUIs and battery
Previous Raids:
- An earlier raid on June 19 at the Sunset Blvd. location also led to multiple detentions, including a U.S. citizen.
- LA Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez said around 20 day laborers were detained and his office is working to provide legal aid.
Community Response:
- Backlash and protests erupted following the arrests.
- Activists claim those arrested were day laborers and street vendors, not criminals.
- Soto-Martinez condemned the raids, calling them “outrageous” and unjust.
Home Depot’s Statement:
- Claimed they weren’t notified of ICE/CBP actions in advance.
- Said they are required to comply with federal and local laws but often learn of arrests after they occur.
