ICE Arrests U.S. Citizen in L.A. for Allegedly Obstructing Law Enforcement Operations

The family of Andrea Velez, a 32-year-old U.S. citizen, claims she was wrongfully detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers during an immigration operation in downtown Los Angeles. Velez was accused of “forcefully obstructing” the agents and was charged with assaulting a federal officer.

After appearing in federal court, she was released on $5,000 bail and is scheduled to return to court on July 17. The incident has garnered significant attention as ICE and other federal agents have recently arrested thousands, often targeting individuals who have committed no crimes.

Velez’s family witnessed the event unfold shortly after dropping her off at work. Her sister, Estrella Rosas, reported seeing officers throw Velez to the ground and place her in an unmarked vehicle.

In emotional footage, Rosas expressed her distress, declaring her sister’s citizenship and pleading for help. Video evidence shared by the Union Del Barrio group depicted the arrest, showing multiple officers detaining someone on the ground.

Tricia McLaughlin from the Department of Homeland Security stated that Velez was arrested for allegedly obstructing an ICE officer during an attempted apprehension of another individual. She emphasized that any assault on a law enforcement officer would be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

Velez’s family disputes the accusations against her and is considering legal action against the federal agents involved. Her attorney, Luis Carillo, characterized her as a victim of excessive force, asserting that the incident exemplifies police brutality.

The LAPD confirmed their presence at the scene in response to a reported kidnapping but stated they were unaware of the federal operation and made no arrests. Rosas highlighted her sister’s education and clean legal record, expressing her outrage over the violation of their rights as U.S. citizens.