Superintendent Carvalho addresses reports of individuals impersonating ICE agents in communities
The Los Angeles Unified School District superintendent warns of reports that individuals are falsely impersonating immigration agents in local communities.
Superintendent Alberto Carvalho released a statement Wednesday that the district is aware of claims that people are alleging to be law enforcement or ICE agents. Carvalho said that impersonators have approached members of the community. On Thursday, the school district clarified there have been no reports of people impersonating agents at LAUSD but there have been such reports in the local community.
In his statement, Carvalho condemned the actions of anyone who seeks to intimidate school communities. He said the district will work with school police and law enforcement to address any violations targeting them.
These concerns come as the LAUSD has started to prepare for potential immigration raids following several of President Trump's executive orders.
The LAUSD has produced "Know Your Rights" cards that contain information on how someone should respond if they are approached by immigration agents, a district spokesperson said.
"The District stands in strong condemnation of those who would seek to intimidate or disrupt those in and around our schools and will work in partnership with our school police and law enforcement partners to address any and all violations.
CBS News Los Angeles reached out to ICE for a comment on the situation. A spokesperson for the agency said they strongly condemn the impersonation of agents and officers.
"ERO law enforcement activity occurs around the clock in communities throughout the greater Los Angeles area as a part of its routine operation," an ICE spokesperson said. "However, ICE does not conduct raids or sweeps, nor does the agency operate roadblocks, checkpoints, or random enforcement actions."
Impersonators can be charged with various criminal offenses not only on a local or state level but federally as well, ICE said.
The LAUSD confirmed they are providing mandatory training for staff on how to respond if an immigration raid takes place at or near a school. The district said they are committed to protecting the legal and privacy rights of students and staff.
"School officials do not collect or share information about the immigration status of students and their families," a spokesperson said.
It has not been confirmed if immigration agents have conducted raids on any LAUSD campuses.
