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Immigration lawsuit plaintiff arrested twice in retaliation, released after court intervention

Apr 24, 2026 · Pasadena, CA, Panama

Isaac Villegas Molina, a Pasadena resident and lead plaintiff in federal litigation challenging ICE enforcement operations, was arrested by federal agents on June 18, 2025, at a bus stop along with two other day laborers. He was released on bond in July 2025. On April 17, 2026, Villegas was arrested again by ICE during an appointment with the Alternatives to Detention-Intensive Supervision Appearance Program. His lawyer filed a habeas petition alleging the arrest was unlawful, without a warrant, and retaliatory given his pending removal case hearing. Following the arrest, a federal judge issued a temporary restraining order. Villegas was released from Adelanto Detention Center after community outcry and advocacy from supporters including local elected leaders and the National Day Laborer Organizing Network (NDLON).

Timeline

Apr 24, 2026Federal judge issues temporary restraining order; Villegas released from Adelanto Detention Center following judge's order and community advocacy
Apr 17, 2026Villegas arrested again by ICE during an Alternatives to Detention-Intensive Supervision Appearance Program appointment; lawyer files habeas petition alleging unlawful arrest without warrant and retaliation
Jul 1, 2025Villegas released on bond
Jun 18, 2025Isaac Villegas Molina arrested by ICE agents at a bus stop in Pasadena along with two other day laborers

Sources

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