Los Angeles County, under the leadership of Chair Pro Tem Hilda L. Solis, has joined a federal class action lawsuit against immigration enforcement, challenging warrantless raids that have sparked fear and disrupted communities across the region.
The County of Los Angeles has formally entered a sweeping federal class action lawsuit against immigration enforcement agencies, alleging widespread civil rights violations during recent operations. The decision follows a motion introduced by Supervisor Hilda L. Solis directing County Counsel to pursue all available legal measures to protect residents.
The lawsuit names the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as defendants and claims the agencies have carried out arrests without warrants or probable cause. The complaint further asserts that federal agents engaged in racial profiling, used excessive force, and denied detained individuals access to legal counsel.
Solis said that for weeks, residents have reported being stopped at car washes, parking lots and public spaces, only to vanish into federal custody without explanation. She cited a recent incident at MacArthur Park where armed agents detained community members in a show of force.
Communities Report Fear and Instability
“People are afraid to take their kids to school, go to work, or ride the bus,” Solis said in a statement. “These warrantless raids have created trauma and instability in our neighborhoods.”
Los Angeles County joins the City of Los Angeles and a coalition of cities and civil rights organizations as plaintiffs in the lawsuit. Among the groups supporting the legal action are the American Civil Liberties Union, Public Counsel, the United Farm Workers, and the Immigrant Defenders Law Center.
Legal Challenge to Federal Actions
The lawsuit seeks an immediate end to warrantless arrests and the adoption of protocols to ensure due process. According to court filings, plaintiffs argue that the enforcement practices violate constitutional protections under the Fourth and Fifth Amendments.
Solis emphasized that the County’s participation reflects a broader commitment to stand up for the rights of all residents regardless of immigration status. “We are sending a clear message that these abuses will not go unchallenged,” she said.
State and Local Measures to Protect Rights
The lawsuit comes as California continues to limit cooperation between local agencies and ICE. Several cities have adopted ordinances restricting data sharing with federal immigration authorities. State lawmakers have proposed new safeguards designed to prevent local involvement in immigration raids.
Residents seeking legal assistance and information about their rights can contact the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California at www.aclusocal.org or the Immigrant Defenders Law Center at www.immdef.org.
As the lawsuit against immigration enforcement moves forward, County officials have pledged to pursue every legal avenue to protect community members and ensure accountability. The case is expected to influence national debates over immigration enforcement and civil rights.
