ICE Raids Detain Hundreds Near Downey Churches, California

Federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conducted a series of immigration raids across Downey, California, including two churches, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church and Downey Memorial Christian Church, as well as locations like Home Depot and L.A. Fitness. During the church raids, agents detained several individuals, including an elderly man dropping off his granddaughter at school, which took place on a public sidewalk near the church. Pastor Alfredo Lopez of Downey Memorial Christian Church reported that ICE agents refused to identify themselves and asserted that "the whole country is their property" while pointing weapons at clergy, sparking outrage among local officials and faith leaders. These raids are part of a broader federal operation that has resulted in over 330 arrests across Los Angeles County, with the Trump administration stating that 115 of those detained had a criminal history. The raids have led to widespread protests and calls from Downey Mayor Hector Sosa and other Southern California mayors for an end to these immigration operations, emphasizing concerns about public safety and community fear. The Archdiocese of Los Angeles clarified that the detainment near Our Lady of Perpetual Help occurred on the public sidewalk and not on church grounds, urging for peace and unity amid the tensions.