Long Beach Mayor Demands Investigation into ICE’s Use of Force

In Long Beach, California, Mayor Rex Richardson is requesting an independent investigation into the use of force by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This follows a video showing federal agents restraining and handcuffing Ricardo Gonzalez, a local resident, who was allegedly injured during the incident.

Gonzalez, identified as a Long Beach resident, father, and former city employee, was involved in the encounter with the agents on Saturday. The video reportedly depicts Gonzalez pinned down, claiming his arm was broken. Mayor Richardson expressed his outrage in a formal complaint submitted to the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General. He emphasized that a federal badge does not permit mistreating individuals or ignoring their constitutional rights.

According to the Los Angeles Times, Gonzalez informed Richardson that he is a U.S. citizen. However, the DHS defended ICE’s actions, stating that their officers adhered to their training and applied the minimum force necessary. ICE also clarified they were conducting a targeted operation to arrest a criminal illegal alien when protesters interfered.

ICE denied claims that an individual on a bike was hit, stating instead that an arrest occurred after the individual damaged a government vehicle. The agency highlighted that resisting arrest poses risks of injury. The DHS is reviewing possible charges related to this incident.

Richardson’s complaint indicates that Gonzalez did not receive medical assistance during the encounter. He was reportedly subjected to repeated taser use and sustained significant injuries.

Gonzalez’s daughter, Leslie Gonzalez, initiated a GoFundMe campaign, claiming her father was struck by an unmarked federal vehicle while riding his e-bike, then tased twice and pinned. She mentioned her father is hospitalized with serious injuries, emphasizing his hardworking nature and condemning ICE’s actions.

Democratic Representative Robert Garcia, representing Long Beach, accused ICE agents of breaking Gonzalez’s arm, calling the videos horrifying and a national concern.

The Long Beach Police Department responded to federal immigration officials’ request for emergency aid on the day of the incident, reporting vehicle vandalism and a person needing medical assistance. Upon arrival, officers encountered a disturbance involving ICE agents. Police found a bleeding, handcuffed man, later identified as Gonzalez, whom they transported to a fire station. From there, fire personnel took him to a hospital after his handcuffs were removed.

The police department clarified they were not involved in immigration enforcement or arrests during the incident, focusing instead on diffusing the situation.