A British illegal migrant escaped federal custody in downtown Los Angeles on Tuesday with the help of anti-immigration enforcement activists, according to Department of Homeland Security sources cited by the New York Post.
The migrant, who is believed to have a criminal record, was shackled and being escorted into the ICE detention center when protesters intervened and reportedly loaded him into a waiting van. Authorities are now conducting a citywide search to locate the fugitive.
Federal sources described the situation around the Los Angeles ICE facility as “out of control,” citing the growing presence of activists blocking deportation operations. The same detention center was a flashpoint during June’s anti-immigration enforcement riots, where mobs attacked federal agents, shut down highways, and damaged property in an effort to halt President Donald Trump’s mass deportation orders.
In response to the riots, President Trump deployed 4,000 National Guard troops and 700 Marines to Los Angeles to restore order. The deployment triggered a lawsuit from California Democrat Gov. Gavin Newsom, who argued that the president exceeded his authority under federal law, which reserves such mobilization for times of “rebellion” or “invasion.” In June, a federal appeals court ruled in favor of President Trump, overturning a lower court’s decision and allowing him to maintain control over the National Guard units stationed in the city.
The latest escape has reignited concerns over organized resistance to federal immigration enforcement. DHS sources say activists have increased efforts to interfere with ICE operations, raising security questions about transporting detainees through protest-heavy areas.
ICE has not yet released the name of the escaped migrant, citing the ongoing investigation.
