Gardener Leaves West Hollywood After Being Detained While on the Job

Community Rallies for Undocumented Gardener Following Detention

West Hollywood residents are coming together to support the family of Alberto Cabral, a 73-year-old gardener who decided to self-deport after being detained by federal agents last week. Cabral was working at a client’s home when he was apprehended by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in front of his customer.

According to family members, Cabral has no criminal history and has lived in the United States for over six decades, having arrived at the age of 12. "It’s really hard," said Gloria Blanco, Cabral’s partner of 33 years. "He’s a great man. A hard worker."

Neighbors and family describe Cabral as diligent and reliable, often working through health challenges. Blanco noted that he had recently broken his tailbone yet continued to fulfill his work commitments. Ultimately, after facing multiple health issues, Cabral opted to return to Mexico of his own accord.

The homeowner who witnessed Cabral’s detention recalled the distressing scene, saying, "Alberto pleaded to them, like ‘I’m injured, I’m older, please just don’t further hurt me.’" This individual later conveyed the unsettling news to Blanco after retrieving Cabral’s abandoned tools and truck.

"He was taken, his tools were left behind, his weed-eater was left just as they dropped it when they approached him," the homeowner explained. "She was obviously very upset, and when she got the truck, it was obviously very real that he wasn’t going to come back home in the truck that day."

Blanco elaborated on Cabral’s decision to self-deport, citing his medical conditions including diabetes and the need for ongoing medication. "He just figured he’d be in there for months and months with no medical care," she said.

As the primary provider for their family, Cabral’s sudden absence has left a significant impact. Blanco traveled to Mexico to deliver his medication but had to return to Los Angeles where they maintain their apartment. "I’m OK here, but I know he’s not OK," she expressed.

Currently, the family is consulting with an immigration attorney to explore their options. Meanwhile, community members are actively fundraising to assist Cabral’s family during this challenging time.

Requests for comment from the Department of Homeland Security and ICE regarding the circumstances of Cabral’s detention have not been answered.