Residents of Alhambra, California, gathered in large numbers at the City Council meeting on March 11, 2024, to voice their concerns stemming from a viral video that raised questions about the potential collaboration between local police and U.S. Border Patrol agents. The video, shared widely on social media, depicts an encounter involving local law enforcement and Angie Vargas, a resident who reported feeling threatened while following what she believed were federal immigration agents.
The incident occurred when Vargas, recording on her cellphone, captured an Alhambra police SUV cutting her off. In the video, she questioned the officers about their involvement with federal agents. A masked Border Patrol agent approached Vargas and asked, “What country are you a citizen of?” to which she replied that she is a U.S. citizen. This exchange has ignited a significant public outcry.
In response to the video, the Alhambra Police Department released a statement clarifying their actions during the encounter. The department explained, “Our officers responded to a call for service regarding a vehicle being followed by another vehicle that was running red lights and making illegal U-turns. Officers parked their vehicle in between both parties to help with de-escalating the situation.” They also asserted that no immigration enforcement was conducted at the scene and that both parties eventually went their separate ways.
Despite the police department’s explanation, tensions remained high during the city council session. Protesters filled the council chambers, hallways, and lobby of Alhambra City Hall, expressing their support for Vargas and condemning federal immigration enforcement practices in the area. One speaker described the video as “appalling and disgusting,” claiming that Vargas’ constitutional rights were violated.
Luis Carrillo, Vargas’ attorney, spoke at the meeting, urging city leaders to take formal action and calling for an internal affairs investigation into the police department’s conduct. He emphasized the need for accountability and transparency in light of the distressing footage.
Mayor Jeff Maloney attempted to address the crowd’s concerns, assuring them that the incident is under review. He noted that no arrests were made, stating, “Fortunately, after less than five minutes the situation ended, and people went on their way.” Despite his reassurances, the mayor’s comments did little to quell the unrest in the room, with some residents chanting “shame” in response to the situation.
The protest at the Alhambra City Council meeting reflects a growing concern over the relationship between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. As the community grapples with these issues, the outcome of the internal review and any potential policy changes will be closely monitored by both residents and advocacy groups.
