Congresswoman Norma Torres Statement on Ongoing ICE Abuses
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Norma Torres (CA-35) released a statement in opposition to ICE Abuses:
“I believe that the ongoing broad enforcement actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Customs and Border Protection, are abusive, illegal, and unconstitutional. They deny the humanity of our immigrant communities in California and across the country, and illegally racial profile individuals. Look no further than the case of Ramiro Santiago Pacheco Martinez, along with many others in our community. Ramiro is a longtime Pomona resident who is currently detained at the Adelanto ICE facility, despite severe health conditions and the impact on his family.
“I do not support the detention of individuals who do not have a criminal record, including those who are actively pursuing lawful immigration status or seeking protection under our nation’s asylum laws. Due process and equal protection under the law are fundamental principles that must be upheld without exception.
“I am outraged by the violent interactions and alleged misconduct in my district and across the country. I strongly encourage local law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate all credible allegations of physical abuse, unlawful entry, and violations of First Amendment protections. Earlier this year, I asked Governor Newsom and Attorney General Bonta to establish a way for Californians to report abusive conduct by federal officials at ICE and CBP. I’m pleased that just a few months ago, they took my suggestion and established a website to report abuse. Transparency and accountability are essential to maintaining public trust, and all available video evidence related to these incidents should be preserved and reviewed in accordance with the law.
“I firmly believe in our government’s responsibility to support and protect the people of the United States, and to uphold our values in everything we do. Donald Trump and his minions appear devoted to undermining our rights, our democracy, and our Constitution. They are allergic to transparency and oversight. That is why I, along with 12 other Members of Congress, had to sue the Department of Homeland Security to stop its unlawful obstruction of congressional oversight of ICE facilities. I’ve been able to go to the LA Field Office and to Adelanto to inspect conditions on the ground and talk to constituents.
After repeated visits, it is clear that there is no place for for-profit prisons in our immigration system. There is too much room for abuse and neglect in pursuit of a profit margin. Adelanto, and others like it, must close. I’ll continue oversight visits at Adelanto, the LA Field Office, and every other place necessary to ensure that our families and loved ones are treated with dignity and fairness.
“We must take lasting action to ensure the abuses of the Trump Administration are never repeated. That means strengthening oversight, protecting constitutional rights, and holding institutions accountable so that our democracy remains just, transparent, and resilient for generations to come.”
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