U.S. Citizen Files $50 Million Claim Against DHS for Excessive Force in Immigration Raid
A U.S. citizen injured in a recent immigration raid in Los Angeles has filed a $50 million federal tort claim against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and two of its agencies for alleged use of excessive force. Rafie Ollah Shouhed, 79, sustained injuries including broken ribs and contusions after ICE agents reportedly threw him to the ground during the operation targeting individuals from Guatemala and Mexico at his car wash business. Shouhed was briefly detained but released without charges. His attorney condemned the agents' actions as unconstitutional and inhumane.
Shouhed's legal action follows a similar claim by another Los Angeles resident who was arrested for recording a raid at a Home Depot store. California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill prohibiting law enforcement officers from wearing masks, with violators facing civil penalties and misdemeanor charges once the law is enforced. Despite this, the Trump administration has directed federal authorities to disregard the law, while DHS has stated its officials will not comply.
The DHS has six months to review Shouhed's claim before a federal lawsuit can be initiated. The incident has sparked criticism of ICE's tactics and raised concerns about the treatment of individuals during immigration enforcement operations. The legal actions taken by affected citizens highlight the ongoing debate surrounding immigration enforcement practices and the need for accountability in law enforcement actions.