Tensions Rise in Los Angeles Over Alleged ICE Presence at Homeless Shelter
In a press conference Thursday, Mayor Karen Bass raised alarms by claiming U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were spotted at a homeless shelter in Los Angeles, igniting concerns among local residents amid ongoing federal raids targeting immigrants. The incident at Whitsett West Tiny Home Village in North Hollywood, operated by the nonprofit Hope the Mission, remains ambiguous.
Los Angeles, designated as a “sanctuary city,” prohibits local officials from engaging in federal immigration enforcement, leading to heightened tensions with the federal government. The atmosphere is further complicated by recent violent protests against ICE activities. Following these events, the Trump administration dispatched the National Guard and Marines to the city.
Contradicting Bass, the Department of Homeland Security quickly dismissed her claims, asserting through social media that “ICE is not in homeless shelters.” They described the mayor’s comments as harmful to law enforcement personnel.
The Whitsett West shelter houses around 150 individuals, and according to Laura Harwood of Hope the Mission, individuals in civilian dress attempted to gain access to the facility, claiming they were taxpayers. Security denied entry. Witnesses described men reportedly taking photos of the site, raising suspicions among staff who observed tinted SUVs identified as belonging to the Department of Homeland Security nearby.
City Councilmember Adrin Nazarian voiced concerns on social media about potential “fearmongering” by immigration agents, warning that targeting shelters could deter the homeless from seeking refuge. Bass emphasized the broader implications of ICE’s actions, stating that their presence poses a threat to vulnerable communities. Meanwhile, Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez noted ongoing investigations into sightings of federal agents, highlighting the community’s efforts to discern credible reports amid ongoing uncertainty.
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