UPDATE: A 25-year-old U.S. Army veteran is speaking out following his shocking detention during a federal immigration raid at a cannabis farm in Ventura County. George Retes, a disabled veteran and security guard at Glass House Farms, describes his arrest on July 10, 2023, as “a violation of my civil rights,” demanding urgent accountability from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
In an exclusive statement to KTLA, Retes alleged that he was subjected to brutal treatment by ICE agents while simply trying to report for work. He claims he was pepper-sprayed, tear-gassed, and forcibly removed from his vehicle at gunpoint—all while complying with orders and identifying himself as a U.S. citizen. “I clearly identified myself as a U.S. citizen and an employee at the farm,” Retes stated, emphasizing, “yet federal agents ignored me and violently detained me.”
The raid has ignited widespread protests from farmworkers and advocacy groups, including the United Farm Workers Union, which highlighted serious concerns over the conduct of federal agents. Following his release without charges, Retes revealed that he was held for three days without access to a phone call or legal representation. “I was never told why I had been arrested,” he said. “I was just trying to go to work.”
Retes further expressed his outrage, stating, “This is not how any American should be treated—especially not a veteran who served this country with honor.” His claims come amid scrutiny of the raid, which reportedly resulted in at least one death, raising alarms about the operational protocols of ICE.
“This wasn’t just a mistake; it was a violation of my civil rights,” Retes asserted. He is now calling for a full investigation into the actions of ICE and other agencies involved, demanding accountability for those who allegedly ignored established protocols and resorted to excessive force. “I want the public to know the truth: this raid didn’t just target immigrants. It hurt Americans too,” he emphasized.
As the situation continues to develop, Retes has vowed to remain vocal. “I served this country,” he declared, “and now I’m demanding it do right by me.” His courageous stand not only underscores the urgent need for justice but also highlights the potential for systemic issues within immigration enforcement practices.
This incident has reverberated through the community and beyond, sparking conversations about civil rights and the treatment of veterans in America. Retes urges the public to rally for accountability and transparency in light of these alarming events.
Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds, and join the conversation on social media to share your thoughts on the treatment of veterans and civil rights in law enforcement actions.