California farm worker fatal after U.S. immigration raid gone off the farm
Camilla‑Virginia Raid Leaves One Farmworker Fatally Injured
Federal Agents Arrest 200 Undocumented Migrants at Glass House Farms
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reported that 200 undocumented migrants were taken into custody during Thursday’s raid on two California cannabis grow sites in Carpinteria and Camarillo. Ten children were rescued from the potential threat of exploitation, forced labor, and human trafficking.
One Worker Killed After a 30‑Meter Fall During the Operation
The United Farm Workers announced on Friday that a farmworker died from injuries sustained during the raid, which involved a fall from a 30‑foot (10‑meter) height. The union did not identify the victim, who was reported to have suffered severe injuries during the Thursday raid.
DHS Describes Protests as “Rioters”
- DHS said more than 500 “rioters” attempted to disrupt the operation.
- Four U.S. citizens face charges for assaulting or resisting officers.
- Teargas was deployed against protestors, some of whom were seen throwing projectiles at law‑enforcement vehicles.
- Immigration‑agency vehicles were damaged.
- A $50,000 reward was offered for an individual who allegedly fired a gun at law‑enforcement officers.
Glass House Brands Asserts Compliance with Employment Practices
The cannabis company confirmed that it has never knowingly violated applicable hiring practices and has never employed minors. Glass House Brands is providing legal representation to detained workers.
Trump Condemns Protestors as “Slimeballs” and Gives “Total Authorization” to ICE
President Donald Trump posted on X that he had watched footage of “thugs” throwing rocks and bricks at ICE vehicles, causing “tremendous damage.” He said that officers “are authorized to stop their cars” and arrest these “SLIMEBALLS” using any means necessary. Trump’s remarks came a day after a chaotic raid on a cannabis plantation 56 miles (90 kilometers) from Los Angeles.
California Governor Gavin Newsom Rejects National Guard Intervention
Newsom stated that the National Guard troops sent to Los Angeles last month were not necessary to address the largely peaceful protests. His legal efforts to remove the troops have so far failed.
Farm Workers Awaited Inside the Camarillo Facilities
During a visit by an AFP reporter on Friday, farmworkers waited in line to collect their belongings and paychecks. “We’ve been here since six this morning asking questions but they’re not giving us any information,” said Saul Munoz, a 43‑year‑old Colombian whose son was detained on Thursday. He added, “I just want to know how he’s doing. Bring him back to me and if it’s time for us to leave, we’ll leave.” Munoz said, “The truth is the American dream is no longer really the American dream.”
