Federal immigration agents detained a 20-year-old U.S. citizen and student with special needs near Santa Maria High School in California on Wednesday morning, leaving the individual injured, according to local officials and advocates. The student, who has limited verbal communication and is enrolled in an individualized education program, was reportedly walking to school around 7 a.m. when two Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers tackled him from behind, questioned his citizenship, and restrained him in their vehicle before releasing him nearby.
Santa Maria City Councilmember Gloria Soto said the student sustained injuries requiring surgery on his wrist and suffered bruises and lacerations. Following his release, the student walked to school in pain and distress, prompting school officials to call 911. A school resource officer later reviewed security footage from a nearby grocery store, which confirmed the individuals detaining the student were ICE agents.
The student’s mentor, Glenn Goldin, a retired special education teacher at Santa Maria High School, said the young man had developed confidence over time to walk to school independently but is now fearful of returning. According to Goldin, the student told him that the agents did not identify themselves before restraining him, although their vests bore the words “POLICE ICE.” The student reportedly had a Real ID but was never asked to present it. He also repeatedly told the agents that the handcuffs were too tight and causing pain.
In response, an ICE spokesperson stated that agents were conducting a targeted enforcement operation when they encountered an individual who matched the description of a “criminal illegal alien target.” The agency said the student resisted, refused lawful commands, and assumed a fighting stance, which led agents to use “training to safely control the situation.” Upon confirming his identity, the student was released. ICE also disputed claims that the student had broken bones, stating he never requested medical assistance.
Advocates and officials have voiced concerns the incident may have been a case of racial profiling. Councilmember Soto called for an independent investigation, citing growing fear in the community amid an increase in immigration arrests in central California. “Our community is living in terror right now and this needs to stop,” she said.
The Santa Maria Police Department referred inquiries to ICE and did not comment on the matter. Alma Hernandez, president of the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District board, condemned the agents’ actions, affirming the district’s commitment to protecting students and families. School district spokesperson Kenny Klein noted that the student was detained roughly half a mile from campus before being released and receiving medical care after arriving at school. District officials notified parents, students, and relevant authorities, including local and state prosecutors.
Additionally, the advocacy group 805 UndocuFund reported witnessing multiple community members stopped and questioned by ICE agents on the same day. The organization has planned a rally and protest in support of the student for the upcoming Saturday.