Los Angeles, California – A series of swift ICE raids at Southern California car washes has left immigrant workers shaken and communities deeply concerned. In a key area for the iconic and essential car wash industry, these enforcement actions have caused fear among workers and raised questions about fairness and legality. The raids mainly affected Latino workers, many of whom have called the U.S. home for decades.
ICE Raids in Southern California Car Washes
In early June, immigration agents raided Touch and Glow Car Wash in Whittier, California. According to Assistant Manager Hector Contreras, ICE officers quickly surrounded the location, targeting only Latino workers. Although Contreras—who is a legal permanent resident—was eventually released, three of his coworkers were detained.
The car wash experienced three separate visits from ICE within weeks. Other businesses, such as Westchester Hand Wash and Bubble Bath Car Wash, also reported sudden, unannounced raids, many lasting less than five minutes.
Over 100 individuals have reportedly been detained in connection with these sweeps since June. Some have not returned to work out of fear, and many local employers said agents presented no warrants during these operations.
Retaliation and Immigration-Related Employment Claims
The raids highlight several areas where labor and immigration law intersect, particularly in workplaces with immigrant labor.
Employees may be protected under California and federal law, even if undocumented:
- Workplace Retaliation: California law prohibits employers from retaliating against workers for asserting their rights, regardless of immigration status.
- Unlawful Detention & Discrimination: Detaining employees based solely on race, ethnicity, or language may violate constitutional protections.
- Lack of Employer Accountability: Despite laws under the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) penalizing businesses for hiring unauthorized workers, few employers face consequences. Workers often bear the brunt of enforcement.
California provides limited protections to undocumented workers seeking wage claims, but once their immigration status is challenged, enforcing those claims becomes more difficult.
We’re Here to Help – Speak with an Employment Lawyer Today
If you or someone you know has been affected by these recent ICE raids, you are not alone. We recognize the fear, disruption, and injustice many workers experience after such actions. Everyone deserves dignity and safety at work—regardless of their background.
📞 Our employment lawyer offers free, confidential consultations to assess potential labor law violations and help you explore your legal options. Contact us today.
