Abby's Bakery Owners Arrested for Harboring Undocumented Immigrants in Los Fresnos

The owners of Abby's Bakery in Los Fresnos, Texas, Leonardo Baez and Nora Alicia Avila-Guel, were arrested by federal authorities on February 12 after eight undocumented immigrants were found at their establishment. They are charged with harboring individuals unlawfully present in the U.S., admitting to knowing the legal status of the migrants. The arrests occurred during a worksite enforcement action by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which has recently ramped up operations in the region. Local reactions include fears and frustrations over the impact on the community, with residents expressing concern for those affected. Baez and Avila-Guel are currently held without bond, with their legal proceedings ongoing. Mayor Alejandro Flores acknowledged the situation's complexity and the community's unease regarding the presence of ICE agents.