ICE Operation in Los Angeles Leads to Arrests of Individuals with Serious Criminal Histories
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released information on a recent immigration enforcement operation in Los Angeles, which resulted in the arrest of several non-citizens with prior criminal convictions. The operation began on June 6 and led to ongoing demonstrations in downtown Los Angeles over the weekend.
According to DHS, the enforcement action was part of broader efforts by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to identify and apprehend individuals in the country without legal status who are suspected or convicted of criminal offenses. The agency shared details on 19 individuals taken into custody on June 7, with charges ranging from robbery and assault to more serious offenses such as second-degree murder and sexual crimes.
“These arrests reflect targeted enforcement efforts focused on public safety,” a DHS spokesperson said. “The individuals arrested during this operation had prior convictions for serious crimes.”
Among those arrested:
-
Lionel Sanchez-Laguna, a 55-year-old Mexican national, had a record including firearm-related offenses, domestic violence, and DUI in Orange County.
-
Cuong Chanh Phan, a 49-year-old from Vietnam, was previously convicted of second-degree murder related to a gang-related shooting at a graduation party in the 1990s.
-
Cielo Vivar-Ubaldo, a Mexican national previously deported, had prior convictions for sex with a minor, narcotics violations, and hit-and-run.
-
Jose Cristobal Hernandez-Buitron, a 43-year-old from Peru, served 10 years in prison for robbery.
-
Julian Riveros-Cadavid, a Colombian national, had prior arrests for child endangerment, domestic violence, theft, and narcotics violations.
-
Rolando Veneracion-Enriquez, a 55-year-old Filipino national, had multiple convictions including burglary, theft, and sexual assault charges that carry lengthy prison sentences.
-
Victor Mendoza-Aguilar, a 32-year-old from Mexico, was previously convicted of assault with a deadly weapon and drug offenses.
-
Armando Ordaz, a 44-year-old Mexican national, had a history that includes sexual battery and petty theft.
The enforcement action has sparked protests across parts of Los Angeles. Officials in law enforcement have described the demonstrations as increasingly tense, with some unrest reported in areas near downtown. Local authorities emphasized the importance of upholding public order while ensuring the right to peaceful protest.
Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, speaking on the matter, expressed concern over the nature of the protests and their impact on law enforcement efforts. “We need to maintain the rule of law. Law enforcement’s role is to protect the public and ensure safety across our communities,” he said.
Despite criticism from some political figures, ICE has continued to maintain that its focus remains on individuals who pose a threat to public safety. All of those taken into custody as part of the operation are currently undergoing immigration proceedings and face potential deportation, depending on the outcome of their individual cases.
DHS has not released all details pending further investigation but noted that more information would be made available as cases progress through the legal system.