How the arrest happened
Citizenship proof ignored
The person stated or showed U.S. citizenship (passport, birth certificate, REAL ID, verbal claim) and agents dismissed, doubted, or disregarded it.
Documented in 23 states. Every well-documented story coded this way, grouped by state. See what accompanies it →
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Hugo Á.V.: U.S. citizen says ICE held him in Mesa car, diagnosed with PTSDHugo Ávila Villegas, 40, a naturalized U.S. citizen, was held in his car by agents in Mesa despite showing his passport. Agents mistook him for someone else; he was later diagnosed with PTSD.Mesa, AZ · Aug 31, 2026 · Univision
Peter Y.: Navajo U.S. citizen with birth certificate held four hours by ICEPeter Yazzie, a Navajo man and U.S. citizen, was detained for four hours at a Peoria gas station despite showing his Certificate of Indian Blood, license, and birth certificate.Peoria, AZ · Jan 12, 2026 · ABC15, The Times, AZ Family +1
U.S. citizen allegedly arrested by Border Patrol, family unaware of whereaboutsA U.S. citizen was allegedly arrested illegally by Border Patrol, according to a social media post, and the family says they do not know the person's whereabouts.Nogales, AZ · Jul 10, 2025 · Popular.info, CBS News
Jose H.: U.S. citizen held 10 days despite birth certificate proofJose Hermosillo, 19, a U.S. citizen from Albuquerque, was held 10 days at Florence Correctional Center after seeking help during a medical emergency. A judge dismissed the case and he was freed.Tucson, Arizona · Apr 17, 2025 · Arizona Public Media, Pueblo Chieftain, Peoria Journal Star +6
Arkansas
California
Milton R.R.: Salvadoran man held at gunpoint by ICE agent, claimed citizenshipMilton Ramos-Ramirez, 51, was held at gunpoint by a plainclothes ICE agent in San Francisco's SoMa neighborhood while repeatedly shouting that he was a U.S. citizen.“I know my rights. I'm a U.S. citizen. You're not supposed to touch me,” — the man detained by ICE (identified as Milton R.R.)San Francisco, CA · Oct 19, 2026 · KTVU, thesanfrancisco.org, KRON4 +2
U.S. citizen Ricardo Gonzalez tased, pinned by ICE agents in Long BeachRicardo Gonzalez, 40, a U.S. citizen and former Long Beach city employee who enjoys riding his e-bike, was tased twice and pinned in a gutter by ICE agents after calling 911 about unmarked vehicles near his home.Long Beach, CA · Oct 19, 2026 · Long Beach Watchdog, elbuentono.com.mx, NBC Los Angeles +12
Baldemar G.: Deaf 15-year-old U.S. citizen handcuffed at gunpoint by agents outside LA schoolBaldemar Gutierrez, a 15-year-old deaf U.S. citizen with developmental disabilities, was pulled from a car and handcuffed at gunpoint outside his Los Angeles high school after being mistaken for someone else. His family is seeking $1 million in damages.Los Angeles, CA · Oct 8, 2026 · NBC Los Angeles, Los Angeles Times, East Bay Times +10
Brian G.: U.S. citizen pinned against gate by Border Patrol agents over his birthplaceBrian Gavidia, a 29-year-old U.S. citizen born in East Los Angeles, was pinned against a fence by Border Patrol agents at his car lot and had to close his business afterward.“I’m American, bro!” — Brian GavidiaMontebello, CA · Jun 14, 2026 · Los Angeles Times, My News 13, Bloomberg Law News +14
George R.: Disabled Army veteran held three days by ICE despite citizenship proofGeorge Retes, a disabled Army veteran and security guard, was pepper-sprayed, tackled and held for three days despite proving his citizenship, missing his daughter's third birthday.Camarillo, CA · Feb 24, 2026 · Scripps News, Military Times, The Atlantic +7
Gardener claiming dual citizenship detained by ICE in Long BeachA gardener detained in Long Beach's University Park Estates said he was a dual citizen born at a local hospital. The mayor called the operation an "abduction."Long Beach, CA · Jan 21, 2026 · Patch, Press Telegram, Long Beach Post +1
Gardeners held by Border Patrol in Long Beach, one says he's U.S.-bornTwo gardeners were detained by Border Patrol agents in Long Beach's University Park Estates; one said he was a dual U.S. citizen born locally. A third gardener who showed documents was not arrested.Long Beach, CA · Jan 20, 2026 · Long Beach Post, Long Beach Local News, Press Telegram +2
Juan Carlos A.: Dual citizen detained by ICE while landscaping in East Long BeachJuan Carlos Aguilar Sr. told ICE agents in Spanish he was a dual U.S. citizen born locally while landscaping in East Long Beach, but was detained anyway. His daughter started a fund for legal help.Long Beach, CA · Jan 20, 2026 · Press Telegram, Patch, Long Beach Post +2
U.S. citizen therapist dragged from car, handcuffed by CBPA Key Largo children's therapist and U.S. citizen was dragged from her car and handcuffed by CBP agents while driving to work, despite screaming her citizenship. She was released after about 10 minutes once agents confirmed her ID.Los Angeles, CA · Dec 4, 2025 · Miami Herald, WSVN, Local 10 +2- Gardener chased and tackled by ICE agents inside Long Beach restaurantA gardener was chased and tackled inside a Long Beach restaurant by immigration agents as off-duty police watched. He showed ID claiming dual citizenship; restaurant staff helped contact his family afterward.Long Beach, CA · Nov 20, 2025 · Long Beach Post, Patch, LAist
Rodrigo A.: U.S. citizen detained by ICE outside Simi Valley workplace without explanationRodrigo Almendarez, a U.S. citizen born in Canoga Park, was detained outside his Simi Valley workplace without explanation and released only after a coworker intervened. He plans to sue over the incident.Simi Valley, CA · Aug 22, 2025 · FOX 11 Los Angeles, Newsweek
Miguel S.: U.S. citizen born in Stockton, California, ordered deported by ICE againMiguel Silvestre, a U.S. citizen born in Stockton, says he has faced deportation four times since 1999 despite a valid birth certificate and a 2004 court ruling confirming his citizenship.Stockton, CA · Jun 26, 2025 · States Without Nations, KCRA, AS (English) +1
Adrian M.: 20-year-old U.S. citizen shoved, jailed while helping elderly worker at WalmartAdrian Martinez, 20, a U.S. citizen Walmart employee, was detained after trying to help an elderly coworker being arrested; footage disproved claims he hit agents, but he still faces a felony charge.Pico Rivera, CA · Jun 22, 2025 · NBC Los Angeles, FOX 11 Los Angeles
Gardener claiming dual citizenship detained by ICE agents in Long BeachA gardener in Long Beach's University Park Estates told agents he was a dual citizen born at Memorial Hospital before being detained. The mayor called the operation an "abduction" done without prior notice.Long Beach, CA · Jun 22, 2025 · Patch, Long Beach Post
Masked ICE agents raid Santa Fe Springs swap meet, arrest twoDozens of masked agents raided a popular Santa Fe Springs swap meet on June 14, canceling a scheduled concert and detaining two people for deportation. Witnesses said agents appeared to target people based on appearance.Santa Fe Springs, CA · Jun 14, 2025 · Los Angeles Times, The Guardian, Human Rights Watch +1
U.S. citizen children, 14 and 17, handcuffed as parents detained in OceansideThe Robles Ortega family was woken in Oceanside when agents broke windows, set off flashbangs and sent in a drone, handcuffing the parents and their 17- and 14-year-old U.S. citizen children until neighbors stepped in.Oceanside, CA · June 2025 · ACLU, NBC San Diego, KPBS
78 arrested, mostly Latinos and farmworkers, in Kern County Border Patrol raidsSeventy-eight people, mostly Latino farmworkers, were stopped and arrested in Border Patrol raids around Bakersfield, including a U.S. citizen gardener whose tires were slashed; a judge found the stops likely unconstitutional but raids continued elsewhere.Kern County, CA · Jan 15, 2025 · Davis Vanguard, ACLU of Northern California, Los Angeles Times +1
Colorado
Florida
Juan Carlos L.G.: U.S. citizen held 30 hours in Florida jail despite IDJuan Carlos Lopez-Gomez, 20, a U.S. citizen who grew up speaking Tzotzil in Mexico, was jailed over 30 hours despite showing his birth certificate and Social Security card.Leon County, FL · Oct 8, 2026 · Truthout, CNN, Newsweek +17
Ernesto P.S.: Legal resident roofer dragged through broken glass by FDLE agents in FloridaErnesto Puac Son, a 33-year-old roofer and legal resident who has lived in Florida 18 years, was dragged through broken glass during a traffic stop and convicted of resisting arrest, getting a year in jail.Stuart, FL · Jun 9, 2026 · Treasure Coast Palm, Blue Water Healthy Living
12-year-old U.S. citizen twin sisters deported to Guatemala by ICETwo 12-year-old U.S. citizen twins born in Orlando were deported to Guatemala after their mother's ICE appointment; a federal court ordered their immediate return at ICE's expense.Orlando, FL · Mar 11, 2026 · Newsweek, Scribd, Hinden Times +1
18-year-old U.S. citizen told he has no rights, arrested at traffic stopAn 18-year-old U.S. citizen was detained during a Florida traffic stop even after his mother showed officers his Social Security card. An officer told him, 'You don't have any rights here.'North Palm Beach, FL · July 2025 · ACLU, USA Today, The Guardian
Kenny L.: 18-year-old U.S. citizen held six hours by Border Patrol at traffic stopKenny Laynez, 18, a U.S. citizen, was held six hours and pushed face-down by agents during a May 2 traffic stop to a landscaping job. A coworker was tasered twice.North Palm Beach, FL · May 2, 2025 · USA Today, Palm Beach Post, NBC Miami +2
America P.R.: Mother facing deportation with U.S. citizen daughter who has life-threatening genetic disorderAmerica Perez Ramirez, 52, was ordered to report for deportation with her 11-year-old daughter Yoselin, a U.S. citizen with a life-threatening genetic disorder requiring her mother's care, after past stays were denied.Florida, FL · Apr 28, 2025 · NBC News, AOL, Newser +1
Georgia
John P.: U.S. citizen handcuffed by ICE at Atlanta airport in mistaken identity caseJohn Phillips, a U.S. citizen with TSA PreCheck, was pinned against a wall and handcuffed by ICE agents at Atlanta's airport after being mistaken for a British national sharing his name.Atlanta, GA · Aug 27, 2026 · Inside Flyer, WSB-TV, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution +1
Alma B.: Macon woman claiming U.S. citizenship held 243 days by ICEAlma Bowman, 59, of Macon, who says she is a U.S. citizen born in the Philippines to a Navy serviceman, was held 243 days at Stewart Detention Center before her November release.Macon, GA · Nov 27, 2025 · Georgia Public Broadcasting, Macon Telegraph, 11Alive
Illinois
U.S. citizen mistaken for fugitive tackled by ICE agents, hospitalized in EvanstonA U.S. citizen walking to fill a prescription in Evanston, was tackled by federal agents who mistook him for a fugitive, suffering head, neck and teeth injuries.Evanston, IL · Oct 4, 2026 · Evanston Now, NBC Chicago, The Guardian +16
Antonio E.: Green card holder pushed to ground by federal agents in Melrose ParkAntonio Enriquez, 53, a green card holder, was pushed to the ground and handcuffed while walking to a store in Melrose Park. He was held six hours until his daughter brought his documents.Melrose Park, IL · Nov 15, 2025 · Chicago Tribune, Spokesman-Review, Reporter-Herald
67-year-old U.S. citizen suffers six broken ribs in Chicago Border Patrol operationA 67-year-old U.S. citizen was pulled from his car and beaten by Border Patrol agents in Chicago, suffering six broken ribs and internal bleeding during a Halloween parade preparation.Chicago, IL · Oct 25, 2025 · The Independent, New York Post, Star Trek Website +4
Evelyn: 18-year-old U.S. citizen held down by ICE officer's knee on her neckEvelyn, an 18-year-old U.S. citizen, was thrown to the ground and knelt on by an ICE officer on October 10 while screaming she was a citizen; DHS falsely denied the video showed her.“They were telling them they were U.S. citizens, and they didn't care. It was very scary to see that video,” — Jazmin, Evelyn's motherChicago, IL · Oct 15, 2025 · The Daily Beast, CBS News, PolitiFact +2
Maria G.: US citizen detained, zip-tied by federal agents despite valid passportMaria Greeley, 44, a Chicago resident and U.S. citizen, was zip-tied by masked federal agents outside a bar after her shift and questioned for an hour despite showing her passport.“never identified himself [and] didn't say 'ICE stop.' I feel like I was getting assaulted, I was getting kidnapped” — MubashirChicago, IL · Oct 14, 2025 · Newsweek, Seattle Times, The Black Wall St Times +5
Warren K.: U.S. citizen, 19, tackled and detained by Border Patrol at WalgreensWarren King, 19, a U.S. citizen from Chicago, was tackled by masked agents at a Walgreens during an unrelated chase and held for hours despite bystanders saying he was a citizen. He was released without charges but suffered injuries.Chicago, IL · Oct 14, 2025 · ABC7 Chicago, ABC News, NBC News +4
U.S. citizens detained by ICE near ChicagoU.S. citizens, including Latinos, were detained during immigration operations near Chicago, with some reporting assault by officers questioning their birthplace. Diego Rosales was stopped by ICE agents while waiting for a school bus in Waukegan.Waukegan, IL · Oct 6, 2025 · Washington Post, NPR, CBS News +2
Louisiana
U.S. citizen shackled and detained by ICE despite presenting valid Louisiana IDA U.S.-born mother of four was handcuffed and shackled at an ICE checkpoint in Lafayette despite showing a valid Louisiana ID and Social Security card, which agents confiscated before an attorney secured her release.Lafayette, LA · May 23, 2026 · The Lens, BJ, Sing Tao USA
Louisiana woman chased home by ICE says she is U.S.-born citizenA woman says she fled ICE agents chasing her at her Louisiana home after telling them she was a US-born citizen, an incident caught on her security camera and later discussed on CNN.Louisiana, LA · Dec 6, 2025 · CNN, CNN, Washington Post +2
Jacelynn G.: U.S. citizen woman chased to her Louisiana home by masked Border PatrolJacelynn Guzman, 23, a U.S.-born citizen, was chased by masked Border Patrol agents through her Marrero, Louisiana neighborhood to her property line before they left without arresting her.“I just kept repeating it — I’m a U.S.-born citizen. I was born and raised here. This is my home. My baby’s waiting for me,” — Jacelynn GuzmanMarrero, LA · Dec 5, 2025 · NBC News, NOLA.com, Ansar Press +5
23-year-old U.S. citizen mother chased by Border Patrol near Marrero homeA 23-year-old U.S. citizen mother was chased by Border Patrol agents near her Marrero home after walking from a store, telling them twice she was a citizen before fleeing inside.Marrero, LA · Dec 3, 2025 · NOLA.com, WBRZ, Standing Record
Two-year-old U.S. citizen deported to Honduras by ICE before judge could ruleA 2-year-old U.S. citizen born in Baton Rouge was deported to Honduras with her undocumented mother and sister before a judge could rule on emergency motions to stop it. A federal judge is now investigating the lack of due process.New Orleans, LA · May 16, 2025 · ABC News, BBC, NBC News +2
2-year-old U.S. citizen apparently deported by ICE to Honduras with pregnant motherA 2-year-old U.S. citizen was apparently deported to Honduras with her mother after the mother was seized at a routine check-in and held for three days without contact with family or lawyers.New Orleans, LA · Apr 25, 2025 · NBC News, Reuters, BBC +1
Maryland
Dulce D.M.: U.S.-born mother held 25 days by ICE, missed Christmas with sonDulce Consuelo Diaz Morales, 22, a mother born in Maryland, was detained near Baltimore and held 25 days despite presenting a birth certificate, missing Christmas with her 5-year-old son. DHS later dismissed her case after confirming her citizenship.Maryland · Oct 8, 2026 · CBS News, NBC Washington, WBALtv +16
Samuel G.: Maryland-born U.S. citizen handcuffed by masked ICE agents outside Annapolis 7-ElevenSamuel Guzmán, 24, a U.S. citizen, was handcuffed by masked ICE agents outside an Annapolis 7-Eleven while driving to his restaurant job. He now leads a lawsuit over warrantless arrests of Latino residents.Annapolis, MD · Sep 11, 2026 · WTOP, The Grio, Washington Post
Job A.M.: Man pinned by ICE in Hyattsville, agent points gun at bystandersJob Arias-Mendoza was pinned to the pavement by ICE agents in a Hyattsville intersection while yelling for help; an agent's dropped gun was then pointed at bystanders. He remains in custody at an undisclosed location.“The real thing was the brutality of it all. It's disgusting,” — Raphi TalismanHyattsville, MD · Sep 24, 2025 · ACLU, NBC Washington, CBS News +1
Minnesota
Jeyli S.: U.S. citizen's home raided by armed agents, sister deported to El SalvadorJeyli Salguero, a 20-year-old U.S. citizen, was home when armed agents broke down her family's door searching for her brother; her sister was deported and her father later released. She is now suing over the warrantless home entry.Minneapolis, MN · Oct 8, 2026 · ProPublica, KARE 11, Minnesota Reformer +4
ChongLy T.: Hmong American U.S. citizen dragged from home in underwear by ICE agentsChongLy 'Scott' Thao, a 56-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen with psoriasis, was pulled from his St. Paul home in his underwear by masked agents as his 4-year-old grandson watched, then released.Saint Paul, MN · Jul 16, 2026 · USA Today, USA Today, El País +23
Mubashir H.: U.S. citizen shackled by masked ICE agents who ignored his IDMubashir Khalif Hussen, 20, a U.S. citizen, was shackled by masked agents despite showing ID while walking to lunch in Minneapolis. A judge ruled he was detained based solely on his race.Minneapolis, MN · Mar 1, 2026 · ACLU, CBS News, Common Dreams +5
Emmanuel S.: Naturalized U.S. citizen with valid ID violently detained by ICE, hospitalizedEmmanuel Sackie, a Liberian-born naturalized U.S. citizen, was violently detained by ICE in a Brooklyn Park, Minnesota parking lot despite showing his license and ID, then hospitalized.Brooklyn Park, MN · Feb 25, 2026 · CBS News
Restaurant worker pulled from car at gunpoint by federal agentsAn employee at chef Sean Sherman's Indigenous-focused restaurant in Minneapolis was pulled from a car at gunpoint and flown to Texas overnight without needed medication or family notice.Twin Cities, MN · Feb 3, 2026 · AOL, Bring Me The News
Matthew A.: Minnesota rapper tackled and sprayed by ICE at protestMatthew Allen, known as rapper Nur-D, was chased, tackled, pepper-sprayed and briefly detained by federal agents while protesting a fatal ICE shooting, leaving him with a knee injury.Minneapolis, MN · Jan 24, 2026 · Rolling Stone, hot97.com, Los Angeles Times
Oglala Sioux tribal citizens detained by ICE near Minneapolis homeless campThree to four enrolled Oglala Sioux Tribe members were detained near a Minneapolis homeless encampment where they had been sleeping under a bridge; one was held 12 hours, three others moved to Fort Snelling.Minneapolis, MN · Jan 14, 2026 · The Hill, CBS News, CNN +7- Jonathan A.G.: 17-year-old U.S. citizen tackled by Border Patrol agents at Minnesota TargetJonathan Aguilar Garcia, a 17-year-old U.S. citizen working at a Minnesota Target, was tackled, handcuffed and detained by Border Patrol on January 8, 2026, despite showing his passport. He was released hours later with injuries.“I'm literally a U.S. citizen. I'm literally a U.S. citizen.” — Jonathan Aguilar GarciaRichfield, MN · Jan 13, 2026 · Grokipedia, Prismedia, ProPublica +3
Christian M.: Latino U.S. citizen's car rammed by ICE in south MinneapolisChristian Molina, a U.S. citizen, had his car rammed by ICE agents in south Minneapolis on January 12, 2026, then was questioned about his immigration status but not detained.Minneapolis, MN · Jan 12, 2026 · Sahan Journal, CBS News, Star Tribune +2
Nimco O.: Somali-American U.S. citizen ordered to prove citizenship by masked ICE in MinneapolisNimco Omar, a Somali-American U.S. citizen, was stopped by masked ICE officers while walking in her Minneapolis neighborhood and threatened with detention after refusing to show ID.Minneapolis, MN · Jan 12, 2026 · Mother Jones, Fox 9, NBC News +4
Jose Roberto R.: Native American U.S. citizen struck and held 10 hours by ICEJose Roberto Ramirez, 20, a U.S. citizen and Red Lake Nation descendant, was pulled from his aunt's car and held roughly 10 hours after agents mistook him for a suspect, leaving bruises on his wrists, neck and face.Robbinsdale, MN · Jan 11, 2026 · ICT News, Cincinnati Enquirer, TIME +10
Minneapolis residents asked by ICE to prove citizenship at gas stationMinneapolis residents, including a man pumping gas and another charging his vehicle, were stopped by ICE officers demanding proof of U.S. citizenship in encounters caught on video.Minneapolis, MN · Jan 10, 2026 · NBC News, USA Herald, KSTP +3
Mubashir H.: U.S. citizen slammed and put in chokehold by ICE in MinneapolisMubashir Hussen, 20, a U.S. citizen, was slammed against a door and choked in Minneapolis despite showing his passport, then freed after two hours. He is now lead plaintiff in a lawsuit over similar detentions.Minneapolis, MN · Jan 7, 2026 · Star Tribune, CourtListener, Sahan Journal +1
Mubashir: U.S. citizen choked, detained by ICE in Minneapolis over Somali appearanceMubashir, 20, a naturalized U.S. citizen, was choked and handcuffed by ICE agents on his lunch break in Minneapolis despite showing his passport, and held two hours before being released.Minneapolis, MN · Dec 13, 2025 · Fausto Tounsi, CBS News, International Business Times +2
Mubashir: U.S. citizen Somali man detained by ICE despite showing passportMubashir, a 20-year-old U.S. citizen, was tackled and detained by ICE in Minneapolis on December 9 despite showing his passport and stating he was a citizen, community advocates said.Minneapolis, MN · Dec 9, 2025 · Sahan Journal, MPR News, KARE 11
Edina-born U.S. citizen held by ICE over 24 hours in MinneapolisA U.S. citizen Somali woman born in Edina was arrested near Nicollet Mall, zip-tied, and held over 24 hours at Sherburne County Jail. She was released after her husband proved her citizenship with a passport card.Minneapolis, MN · Dec 4, 2025 · Fox 9, MPR News, CBS News +2
Nebraska
New Jersey
Brandon D.: U.S. citizen thrown down, held five hours by ICE in Passaic, NJBrandon Domena, a lifelong Passaic County, New Jersey resident and U.S. citizen, was restrained face-down and held five hours by ICE while watching agents arrest a neighbor. He was released the same day without charges.Passaic, NJ · Aug 27, 2026 · The Nerd Stash, News 12 New Jersey, Attack of the Fanboy
U.S. citizens, military veteran held without warrant in Newark ICE raidA military veteran and two others were detained when about a dozen agents raided a Newark seafood business without a warrant on January 23, questioning the veteran's service documents.Newark, NJ · Jan 23, 2025 · USA Today, NJ.com, CBS News +1
New York
Jeury C.: U.S. citizen teen left bloodied with concussion in mistaken ICE arrestJeury Concepcion, 19, a U.S. citizen from the Bronx, was tackled, handcuffed and left bleeding by masked agents who mistook him for someone else. A judge ruled the arrest illegal and found officers gave false testimony.“They didn't identify themselves as ICE. They just grabbed me and threw me on the floor and started hurting me.” — Jeury ConcepcionBronx, NY · Oct 9, 2026 · People, Newsweek, ProPublica +9
8-year-old U.S. citizen held nearly seven months in Brooklyn shelterAn 8-year-old U.S. citizen was held in a Brooklyn shelter for nearly seven months despite his grandmother providing his birth certificate. He was released after a judge ruled him a citizen and was reunited with his grandmother.Brooklyn, NY · Jun 2026 · New York Focus, syracuse.com, News from the StatesU.S. citizen and four others arrested by ICE in Geneva, New YorkA U.S. citizen and four others, including men driving to work, were arrested in Geneva, New York, on May 14; one was later released after proving citizenship. Community rallies continued into late May.Geneva, NY · May 14, 2026 · Spectrum Local News, Finger Lakes 1, Finger Lakes Daily News
Cary L.A.: Nine-months-pregnant U.S. citizen restrained and held overnight by ICECary López Alvarado, a U.S. citizen, was detained nine months pregnant outside immigration court and released only after her citizenship was confirmed. Her husband was later deported; she seeks $1 million in damages.New York, NY · Feb 20, 2026 · 19th News, WLRN, The 19th +1
Pedro R.: U.S. citizen worker detained in ICE raid at Cato, New York factoryPedro Rojas, a U.S. citizen born in Puerto Rico, was detained during an armed raid at his workplace and still had to show ID before being let go. Body camera footage of the raid is now part of his lawsuit.Cato, NY · Sep 4, 2025 · New York Civil Liberties Union, NBC New York, HR News Canada +2
North Carolina
Willy A.M.: Naturalized U.S. citizen thrown to pavement by masked ICE agents, left bleedingWilly Wender Aceituno Medina, a naturalized citizen in Charlotte for over 25 years, was dragged over broken glass and thrown to the pavement after agents confirmed his citizenship. He is suing for $1.25 million.Charlotte, NC · Jul 20, 2026 · La Prensa, Univision, The Assembly +17
Fernando V.: U.S. citizen teen handcuffed, abandoned in woods by Border Patrol in CaryFernando Vazquez, 18, a U.S.-born landscaper, was handcuffed at a Cary job site despite showing valid ID, then abandoned in woods with his belongings thrown on the ground. He has filed a federal damages claim over the ordeal.“Honestly, I just felt like I was getting kidnapped, because I didn’t know what else more they wanted from me,” — Fernando VazquezCary, NC · Jul 2026 · NC News Line, USA Today, The News & Observer +5
Oregon
Christian J.: Teen U.S. citizen's car window smashed by ICE in OregonChristian Jimenez, a 17-year-old McMinnville High School senior, was pulled over and had his car window broken by ICE agents during his lunch break despite telling them he was a citizen. He was held nearly seven hours before release.Newberg, OR · Oct 7, 2026 · Trib, Chron, The New Republic +11
Maria: U.S. citizen grandmother left with concussion by ICE agents in Salem, OregonMaria, a U.S. citizen grandmother, was dragged from her car and thrown to the ground by ICE agents near Salem, Oregon, while running errands, suffering a concussion and torn rotator cuff.Oregon · Jul 28, 2026 · KATU, Buried, Cherry City Chronicle +5
Pennsylvania
Texas
Brian M.G.: U.S. citizen deported to Mexico by Border Patrol, misses daughter's birthBrian José Morales García, a 25-year-old HVAC worker born in Denver, was deported to Mexico after a Texas traffic stop despite showing his birth certificate. He missed his daughter's birth and returned after nearly five months.Fredericksburg, TX · Oct 8, 2026 · Newsweek, The Independent, CourtListener +22
Luis O.: 17-year-old U.S. citizen filming raid has wrist broken by ICEA 17-year-old U.S. citizen had his wrist broken and was pepper-sprayed while filming an ICE raid near his school on his way to meet a Marine recruiter. His mother was deported days after speaking publicly about it.Alamo, TX · Sep 27, 2026 · Military.com, KRGV, The New Republic +6
Arnoldo B. and Arnulfo B.C.: 16-year-old U.S. citizen choked by masked ICE agents in Houston, father deportedArnoldo Bazan, 16, a U.S. citizen and Houston tenth grader, was choked by masked agents while riding to school with his father, who was later deported to Mexico.Houston, TX · Jul 31, 2026 · Houston Chronicle, Houston Public Media, The Mirror +19
Mauro H.: Houston high school soccer captain detained by ICE, deported to HondurasMauro Yosueth Henriquez, 18, a Sam Houston soccer captain and volunteer coach, was detained with his father during a December immigration check-in and deported to Honduras after nearly four months in custody.Houston, TX · Apr 10, 2026 · Click2Houston, Houston Chronicle, Houston Chronicle +2
U.S. citizen child with brain cancer deported to Mexico with parentsA 10-year-old U.S. citizen recovering from brain tumor surgery was deported to Mexico with her undocumented parents and siblings after agents ignored a hospital letter, cutting off her medical treatment.Rio Grande City, TX · Mar 24, 2026 · NBC News, Latin Times, ProPublica
U.S. citizens allegedly held at gunpoint in ICE raid in Donna, TexasMore than 30 Hispanic Texans sued after a January 9 raid in Donna, Texas, where agents allegedly detained U.S. citizens at gunpoint without a judicial warrant.Houston, Texas · Feb 6, 2026 · Houston Chronicle, KDH News, ProPublica +2
Francisco C.R.: U.S. resident with work permit pepper-sprayed and injured by ICEFrancisco Chan Reyes, 25, a lawful U.S. resident, was pepper-sprayed and held facedown during a traffic stop even after showing his driver's license and work permit. He was released after four hours once fingerprints confirmed his status.San Antonio, TX · Jan 30, 2026 · FOX San Antonio, News 4 San Antonio, KSAT
David F.: Houston man stopped by ICE despite being U.S. citizenDavid Flores, a third-generation U.S. citizen, was surrounded by eight ICE agents while driving to work in Houston on January 1. Agents left after he showed his passport and began recording.Houston, TX · Jan 1, 2026 · Click2Houston, KHOU, Houston Chronicle
Maria V.: 6-year-old detained at Dilley, deported to Colombia after two monthsMaria Vargas, 6, was held with her parents at Dilley for two months after they fled Colombia and sought trafficking-victim visas in New York. She lost weight, regressed developmentally, and was deported to Colombia in November 2026.Dilley, TX · Nov 2025 · NBC News, Texas Tribune, Associated Press
Mother of teen beaten by ICE deported days after family spoke outTeresa de Jesus Ochoa Briseño, a cook arrested outside her Alamo restaurant, was deported to Mexico the same day, ten days after her son Luis, 17, said agents broke his wrist.Alamo, TX · Sep 11, 2025 · Newsweek, International Business Times, CRBC News +2
Utah
Arturo R.: Deaf Utah green card holder injured by ICE agents at bus stopArturo Ruvalcaba, a deaf green card holder and father of three adopted sons, was injured by ICE agents at a Utah bus stop who gave no sign language interpreter. His federal civil rights lawsuit was dismissed by agreement in July.Taylorsville, UT · Jul 9, 2026 · KSL, FOX 13 Now, The Salt Lake Tribune +3- Driver forcibly removed from car, passenger also held for ICE in UtahA driver was forcibly removed from his car during an I-15 traffic stop after failing to show ID, and both he and a passenger were found to have active ICE detainers.Roy, UT · Mar 30, 2026 · KJZZ, KUTV
Virginia
Washington
Elaine M.: Indigenous actress detained by ICE, tribal ID rejected as fakeIndigenous actress Elaine Miles, known for "Northern Exposure" and "Smoke Signals," was detained at a Redmond bus stop after agents rejected her tribal ID as fake. Her son and uncle were also briefly detained nearby.Redmond, WA · July 2026 · KUOW, KUOW, Seattle Times
Carlos R.: Washington man held a week by ICE despite his U.S. passportCarlos Rios, a naturalized citizen and welder who carried his passport for international jobs, was held a week by ICE after a drunken-driving arrest, later winning a $125,000 settlement.Pierce County, WA · Jan 27, 2025 · ProPublica, Washington Post, CNN
Wisconsin
Location not tied to one state
Joseph D. and Alexandria Q.: Activists tracking ICE agents arrested during 45-day surge in SLO, Santa BarbaraJoseph Dobzynski and Alexandria Quintanar, volunteers who track ICE agents, were arrested Oct. 14-15 for allegedly impeding officers during a 45-day enforcement surge. Quintanar repeatedly shouted that she was a U.S. citizen.CA · Oct 19, 2026 · Cal Coast News, Ventura County StarHarold A.: 58-year-old Cuban man deported by ICE to Mexico without money or documentsHarold A., a 58-year-old Cuban man, was detained at a routine ICE check-in and deported to Mexico without money or documents, among over 4,300 Cubans deported without ever seeing a judge.May 27, 2026 · Associated Press, Human Rights Watch, ABC News +2
Francisco M.: U.S. citizen arrested by ICE outside Oregon workplaceFrancisco Miranda, a U.S. citizen born in California, was detained by ICE outside his Milwaukie, Oregon workplace despite repeatedly stating his citizenship. Agents confiscated his phone after he began recording the arrest.“without being given any legitimate reason for his abduction.” — Michael Fuller, Miranda's attorneyOR · Oct 10, 2025 · Lake Oswego Review, U.S. House of Representatives - Salinas Office, Courthouse News +7
Carmen: Domestic violence victim deported back to abusive husband despite pending U-VisaCarmen, a domestic violence survivor with a pending visa application, was detained at a check-in and deported with her 8-year-old son in July 2025, back to her waiting abuser.Jul 2025 · Los Angeles Times, ReportWire
Pregnant US citizen detained by Border Patrol agentsA pregnant U.S. citizen was detained by Border Patrol agents about two weeks before the report, saying she did not believe she had done anything wrong.Jun 19, 2025 · The Hill, WKRG, CBS 42 +2
U.S. citizens, including Native Americans and a veteran, detained in ICE raidsU.S. citizens, including Native Americans and a military veteran, have been detained and questioned during immigration raids, with witnesses saying people were targeted based on race or skin color.Jan 28, 2025 · NBC News, CNN, The Guardian