Community Rallies Around LA Teen Detained by ICE

Benjamin Guerrero-Cruz, a Reseda Charter High School senior, was detained by ICE agents on August 8th while walking his dog in Van Nuys. According to reports, masked agents in unmarked vehicles apprehended him, leading to community outcry and rallies. His former teacher, Lizette Becerra, who visited him at the Adelanto Detention Center, stated that Guerrero-Cruz told her the agents bragged about a $1,500 payment for his arrest.

The Department of Homeland Security claims Guerrero-Cruz overstayed his visa, entering the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program and failing to depart by March 15, 2023. A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist the family with legal fees. Supporters and community members are questioning the manner of his arrest, the lack of clear identification from the arresting agents, and the conditions of his detention. The Los Angeles Unified School District has declared schools as safe spaces, emphasizing that immigration enforcement near schools disrupts learning and creates anxiety. This incident follows reports of immigration raids near other LAUSD campuses, highlighting ongoing tensions between federal immigration enforcement and local communities.

The Department of Homeland Security claims he overstayed his visa after entering the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program.

Concerns include the manner of his arrest, alleged boasts by agents about payment for his arrest, and reports of inadequate detention conditions.

Community rallies have been held, a GoFundMe page was created to support his family, and the LAUSD has reiterated its commitment to safe spaces for students.

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