Federal authorities have charged two medical staff employees after video footage captured them physically obstructing Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents during an arrest. The incident occurred at Ontario Advanced Surgery Center in San Bernardino County, California, on July 8.
Staffers Jose de Jesus Ortega and Danielle Nadine Davila, both dressed in scrubs, are accused of assaulting an ICE officer, interfering with a federal arrest, and conspiring to forcibly prevent an ICE agent from performing duties. Ortega was arrested; Davila remains at large.
ICE officers were pursuing Honduran national Denis Guillen‑Solis, who fled into the clinic to evade arrest. Guillen‑Solis, a landscaper, not a patient, entered the facility after running from law enforcement. Clinic staff intervened, wedging themselves between the officer and the fleeing man. Ortega allegedly grabbed the officer’s arm and vest, while Davila physically blocked him and shouted “Let him go” and “Get out.”
U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli emphasized that the detainee was not affiliated with the clinic. “These defendants attempted to block his apprehension by assaulting our agents,” Essayli said, warning that anyone interfering with federal officers will face charges.
According to the DOJ complaint, ICE agents approached individuals exiting a vehicle in clearly marked vests. One suspect fled into the clinic, where a struggle ensued. Staff reportedly attempted to lock clinic doors, block law enforcement vehicles, and even called police claiming a kidnapping.
If convicted, Ortega and Davila could face up to eight years in prison on the assault charge and up to six years on the conspiracy charge.
Advocacy groups highlighted the growing trend of ICE enforcement taking place inside workplaces and healthcare facilities. Some defenders praised the staff’s actions as courageous, arguing they sought to ensure basic due process. Others warned such interference obstructs law enforcement and endangers public safety.
The incident aligns with broader federal enforcement efforts under the Trump administration. DHS has reported an “830 percent increase in assaults on ICE personnel” from January to mid‑July 2025, citing hostile rhetoric and misinformation as contributors.
