Advocates Preparing For Large ICE Raid In California
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — Immigration advocates are bracing for a sweeping raid by ICE agents across Northern California, targeting undocumented immigrants.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents will target California for its "so-called" sanctuary state status in what could be the biggest enforcement operation yet under President Trump.
Sacramento's B'nai Israel Synagogue now includes a dedicated space for undocumented immigrants seeking sanctuary from arrests by federal agents.
The congregation voted not to hide undocumented people, but to house them, hopeful federal agents would not raid a house of worship.
"As a Jewish community we have known what it means to be on the outside," Rabbi Mona Alfi said.
Reports of a massive immigration raid, have Alfi fearful for undocumented families facing separation.
"This doesn't feel like this is about the safety and security of our country," Alfi said.
A report by the San Francisco Chronicle, describes an imminent ICE raid seeking to arrest 1500 undocumented people.
Those served with final deportation orders and those with criminal histories would be primary targets. An ICE spokesperson would not confirm or deny reports.
"We can't speculate about future enforcement actions," ICE spokesperson James Schwab said.
UC Davis Professor Holly Cooper says the massive size of the reported operation is especially unusual because it would require lots of space to detain the arrested and get them hearings.
She is advising undocumented people to prepare.
"If you do have a removal order you should talk to a lawyer immediately," Cooper said.
In response to California's so-called sanctuary state status.
ICE acting director Thomas Homan appeared on Fox News earlier this month promising more enforcement action in California.
"We are going to be all over the place, and we are going to enforce law without apology," Homan said.
Now reports that an ICE action is imminent, in an operation aimed all over Northern California.
"This feels political," Alfi said.
