by A surprise operation by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Border Patrol agents at MacArthur Park on Monday sparked intense backlash from Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who denounced the federal presence as a “political stunt” and vowed to protect the city’s sanctuary status.
Federal agents, some in tactical gear and armored vehicles, swept through the park in what they described as a “show of force” targeting MS-13 gang activity, open-air drug sales, and document fraud — longstanding issues in the area. The move drew sharp criticism from local officials and community groups, who said the operation disrupted daily services and frightened children participating in a summer camp nearby.
Why It Matters
- MacArthur Park has long been plagued by gang violence, fentanyl overdoses, and homeless encampments.
- The federal operation marks a growing tension between federal immigration enforcement and local sanctuary policies.
- The sweep prompted community service disruption and raised concerns about escalating federal-local conflict over immigration policy.
What to Know
- ICE and Border Patrol say the operation was focused on addressing public safety concerns, not immigration enforcement.
- Federal sources told The Post the park is known for MS-13 presence, drug use, and the sale of fake IDs.
- Agents said they intended to help clean up the park and protect residents, but were met with hostility from city officials.
Mayor Bass’s Response
- Mayor Karen Bass called the federal sweep “outrageous” and “un-American,” claiming it left the park looking like “a city under siege.”
- She said children at a summer camp were forced into a basement during the operation.
- On X, Bass posted a video of the agents crossing the park, writing:
“Minutes before, more than 20 kids were playing — then, the MILITARY comes through. The SECOND I heard about this, I went to the park to speak to the person in charge to tell them it needed to end NOW.” - Bass accused federal officials of spreading fear and reaffirmed her commitment to keeping L.A. a sanctuary city.
Local Context and History
- Last year, Bass visited MacArthur Park after Norm Langer, owner of the historic Langer’s Deli, threatened to close due to worsening safety concerns.
- At the time, Bass acknowledged that businesses were reportedly paying gangs for protection, calling it “essentially extortion.”
- Local security guard Gabriel Sanchez told the LA Times he routinely faces violence and carries Narcan to reverse overdoses:
“I’ve had knives pulled on me… just the other day I got hit with a wooden bat.”
Community Impact
- Members of St. John’s Community Health Center conducting outreach with homeless residents were pushed out during the operation.
- Critics argue the raid undermined local efforts to provide public health services and community support in the park.
What Happens Next
- The Biden administration and the Department of Homeland Security have yet to issue an official statement on the sweep.
- Mayor Bass has called for an investigation into the federal incursion and is expected to meet with city council members on possible legal action.
- ICE and Border Patrol sources say similar operations could continue despite local resistance.
The confrontation highlights the deepening divide between federal enforcement agencies and progressive city governments over immigration and public safety priorities.
