An image from Angie Vargas’ video of police blocking her car.
Alhambra Mayor Jeff Koji Maloney issued a statement Jan. 19 on an incident that day involving the Border Patrol, Alhambra police and local residents.
“I’m relieved that the incident today between private residents and federal agents did not escalate further,” he said. “I want to be clear that the City of Alhambra, with my strong support, has repeatedly confirmed its compliance with the California Values Act and that we support ALL our residents, regardless of race, background, or immigration status.
“Per state law and city policy, there was no prior coordination or planning between the City of Alhambra and federal agents on any immigration action today. We remain squarely focused on keeping our community safe — not enforcing federal mandates.
“Alhambra is a community of immigrants and the descendants of immigrants, myself and my family included. It is a point of pride for Alhambra and I believe we all look forward to a time when we can have rational policy discussions on important topics free from fear and intimidation.”
The police also issued a statement: “The Alhambra Police Department is aware of a recent social media post depicting our officers responding to an interaction between federal agents and members of the public.
“On today’s date, at 9:39 a.m., our officers responded to a call for service regarding a vehicle being followed by another vehicle that was running red lights and making illegal U-turns. Alhambra officers contacted both parties at Garfield and Valley. Officers parked their vehicle in between both parties to help with de-escalating the situation.
“Officers assisted with keeping the peace and confirmed no immigration enforcement was taking place at the scene. Shortly after PD arrival, both parties went their separate ways. Our officers cleared five minutes after arrival. Our officers had no prior knowledge that federal agents were in the city.
“The Alhambra Police Department fully complies with the California Values Act (SB 54). Our priority remains with protecting all residents and fostering community trust by ensuring that fear of immigration status does not prevent anyone from reporting crimes, serving as a witness, or seeking police assistance.”
In an interview with CBS LA’s Laurie Perez, community advocate Angie Vargas, who has been documenting ICE activities in the Los Angeles area, said that she was not running red lights or making U-turns, and that the police blocked her car and questioned her. Her video of the incident also shows the federal agents asking her about her citizenship.
Vargas claimed that the stop was illegal and that the police were assisting the Border Patrol.