Downey Residents Share Their Concerns with Border Patrol Agents
Downey Residents Intervene as Border Patrol Confronts Landscapers
DOWNEY, Calif. – Tensions flared Saturday morning when local residents intervened as border patrol agents attempted to detain two landscapers. The incident unfolded around 10 a.m. at the intersection of Benares and Ryerson streets, drawing the attention of neighbors who quickly gathered to document the confrontation.
Victor Correa, a Downey resident, was present during the encounter. "Waking up and seeing ICE in your front yard is tough," he commented. Correa noted that while he did not interfere directly, he felt compelled to raise awareness about the situation. His goal, he stated, was to "make as much noise as possible to bring attention."
Video footage captured by witnesses shows neighbors urging the agents to leave the landscapers alone, with many expressing concern for their well-being. According to Correa, the agents did not initially inquire about the landscapers’ documentation, instead attempting to place them in their vehicle. Neighbors later clarified that one landscaper possessed a green card while the other held a valid work permit, although authorities have not officially confirmed their immigration status.
The incident reflects broader national concerns regarding immigration enforcement practices. Civil rights advocate James DeSimone highlighted that while federal agencies are authorized to stop and question individuals under specific conditions, the manner of those interactions is crucial. "If they engage in tactics such as tackling people before speaking to them, that’s a violation of the United States Constitution," DeSimone stated.
He advised that U.S. citizens who find themselves stopped should assert their citizenship clearly, reiterating if necessary, while non-citizens should carry proper documentation. DeSimone emphasized that even naturalized citizens may feel vulnerable during such interactions.
In this case, the visible support from the community is believed to have played a significant role in allowing the landscapers to leave without further incident. In the aftermath, the landscapers have returned to their work, expressing gratitude for the neighborhood’s support.
Correa reflected on the experience, saying, "I just get a lot of people telling me that they’re proud of me. But I didn’t do anything that my parents didn’t teach me to do. I’m just proud of my community for coming together." He added that the incident underscored the importance of knowing one’s rights, advocating for individuals to be good witnesses: "Record what you see, speak up, but don’t interfere."
