Videos on social media raise concern over potential ICE activity in Salinas
jose.romo
SALINAS, Calif. (KION-TV) — The solidarity network in Monterey County says they have not been able to confirm rumors of ICE and Border Patrol staying in hotels along the Peninsula. Videos on social media are causing concern among some community members in Monterey County.
Some posts said ice agents were renting hotel rooms in the region. Others claimed a possible presence in Salinas.
“I have not seen (ICE) activity.” Angie Alfaro lives a few blocks from some of the sightings reported on North Main Street in Salinas. “You know, because if they’re in unmarked cars they’re not as how do you say visible to the eyesight to see.”
But the solidarity network says so far, nothing has been confirmed.
“What I can share is that some community members and workers in that area confirmed that they saw multiple black vans without plates, but I believe they saw some logos with the agency information.”
Victor Caravez with the Solidarity Network says Monterey County has not seen any large ICE raids like in other parts of the state. He adds that to this point, the only ICE sightings have been targeted incidents where agents are searching for an individual with a criminal record.
“Every time somebody from the community has a concern and they call the hotline, we basically contact our group of people and volunteers, and they can go out and verify the information before it actually gets out on social media.”
The Network says posting or sharing unverified information not only causes panic and confusion; it also spreads fear among our most vulnerable neighbors.
Immigration attorney, Blanca Zarazua, recommends caution when filming or documenting ICE activity.
“I would recommend no direct contact, physical or verbal, with anyone who says they’re an officer,” she said. “You don’t want to expose yourself by committing some assault or something else that’s objectionable, or interference with their operations, because then you’re really exposed to charges against you.”
The Solidarity Network says they are working on a potential app that will share their verified information with the community. They urge those who can to document sightings and always first call their hotline. You can also call their hotline at (831) 204-8082.
The Solidarity Network will be hosting training sessions for its hotline on July 21st and 26th.