Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson is demanding an independent inquiry into U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) forceful actions following an incident involving federal agents and a local man. Richardson’s concern centers on a video showing agents restraining and handcuffing Ricardo Gonzalez, a Long Beach resident. Local officials allege Gonzalez sustained injuries during this incident.
The footage reportedly depicts Gonzalez pinned on the ground, exclaiming that his arm is broken. Richardson expressed his outrage in a formal complaint to the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Office of Inspector General. He emphasized that a federal badge should not permit inhumane acts or the dismissal of constitutional rights and medical assistance needs.
The Los Angeles Times reported that Gonzalez affirmed his U.S. citizenship to Mayor Richardson. In defense of their actions, DHS stated that ICE officers acted per their training and exercised minimal force. They noted that the officers were involved in a targeted operation aimed at arresting a ‘criminal illegal alien at large’. During this, protesters allegedly attempted to hinder the operation, posed threats, and damaged government property.
ICE clarified on social media platform X that reports of a biker being hit are inaccurate. They stated the arrest was made only after vehicle damage occurred. The agency highlighted the potential risks of resisting arrest, which may lead to personal injury. DHS is considering charges related to the vehicle damage.
Mayor Richardson, in his complaint, noted a lack of medical aid for Gonzalez. He added that during the incident, Gonzalez faced repeated Taser attacks, was forcibly subdued, and suffered significant injuries.
Gonzalez’s daughter, Leslie, initiated a GoFundMe campaign, stating that her father was hit by an unmarked federal vehicle while on his e-bike, followed by multiple Taser strikes and being pinned to the ground. She relayed that he is currently hospitalized with serious injuries, acknowledging the sacrifices he made for their family.
Representative Robert Garcia, a Democrat representing Long Beach, voiced his concerns on X, claiming that ICE agents were responsible for breaking Gonzalez’s arm. He described the incident as brutal and alarming on national grounds.
The Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) explained that their involvement commenced after federal immigration officials requested help due to vehicle vandalism and a medical emergency. Officers found a chaotic situation upon arrival, including a handcuffed and bleeding Gonzalez. Officers transported Gonzalez for medical attention via a nearby fire station.
Police efforts included mitigating disturbances and dispersing the crowd, while clarifying they did not engage in immigration enforcement or arrests.