Neighbors in North Long Beach captured video on Saturday afternoon showing a man being restrained on the ground by what appear to be ICE agents near the intersection of Locust Avenue and Ellis Street. The footage, which quickly spread on social media, shows the man screaming that his arm is broken and pleading for help while agents keep him handcuffed.
Local reaction
Long Beach residents who rushed to the scene described the encounter as “disturbing” and “traumatic.” “They tased him, and it was just horrible,” said Patty Villarrel, a Long Beach homeowner. “They were even kicking him when he was handcuffed on the ground,” added neighbor Ashley Brust.
Mayor Rex Richardson responded on social media, stating, “Our residents shouldn’t be put in these situations. Families shouldn’t have to live in fear in their own neighborhoods. I’ve asked our city team to verify exactly what happened and to document everything.” The mayor emphasized that Long Beach police were not involved in immigration enforcement and made no arrests.
Federal perspective
U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli countered criticism from Congressman Robert Garcia, writing, “You’re a sitting member of Congress and you’re encouraging people to obstruct immigration agents enforcing laws enacted by Congress? Shame on you. These incidents would be less common if the targets complied with lawful commands. I’m proud of the men and women of law enforcement who risk their lives every day to keep us safe. We will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute anyone who assaults them.” Essayli’s statement underscores the Trump administration’s commitment to robust immigration enforcement as a matter of national security and rule of law.
Congressional condemnation
Congressman Garcia, who represents Long Beach, condemned the incident, saying, “ICE agents brutally attacked and broke the arm of a North Long Beach resident and U.S. citizen. The videos are horrific and should concern not just our community but the country. I’m proud of the neighbors who documented and stood up for the family being terrorized by ICE. Donald Trump and his inhumane and illegal deportation machine must be stopped. ICE is not welcome in Long Beach. Abolish ICE.” Garcia’s remarks reflect a growing partisan divide over federal immigration policy.
Police and emergency response
Long Beach police clarified that they were called by the Department of Homeland Security and ICE for assistance after a vehicle vandalism report and a medical emergency. Upon arrival, officers found the handcuffed man bleeding and transported him to a nearby fire station, where fire personnel removed the handcuffs and took him to a hospital for treatment. Police emphasized they did not participate in immigration enforcement and made no arrests.
Family confirms citizenship
The man’s family confirmed to NBC Los Angeles that he is a U.S. citizen. “I love it, and that’s why we have a community that gets together, and I am very grateful we have a community in North Long Beach,” Villarrel added, highlighting the neighborhood’s solidarity despite the incident.
Broader context
The episode occurs amid ongoing national debate over the role of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The Trump administration continues to prioritize strict enforcement of immigration laws, arguing that such measures protect American communities and uphold the Constitution. While local leaders in Long Beach call for accountability and transparency, federal officials maintain that ICE agents acted within their legal authority.
Authorities have not yet released a full investigation report. The incident remains under review by both city officials and federal agencies.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
