UPDATE: A musician injured during a chaotic immigration raid in Camarillo, California, is taking legal action against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Alec Bertran, who suffered a broken finger while protesting the raid at Glass House Farms, has filed a federal civil rights claim, marking a significant escalation in the aftermath of the July incident.
Bertran spoke to reporters earlier today, recounting the traumatic experience: “The road to recovery will be long. I don’t know if I will ever be able to play again, but I’m going to try.” The musician, known for his guitar and piano skills, claims he was struck multiple times by less-lethal rounds fired by immigration agents during the protest.
Witnesses report that the scene turned violent as agents deployed tear gas and non-lethal munitions against protesters. “I stood where I was allowed to stand, and I made my voice known,” Bertran stated, emphasizing his right to peaceful assembly. His attorney, James DeSimone, confirmed that Bertran was unaware that he would be targeted: “No warning was given to those individuals,” he said. “Alec Bertrand did not know that he was going to be shot five times in a matter of 15 seconds when he was standing there protesting.”
The raid on July 2023, which aimed to enforce a judicial warrant, attracted over 100 protesters who gathered at the site. According to DHS, the situation escalated when some individuals turned violent, allegedly throwing objects at law enforcement. A spokesperson for DHS stated, “Border Patrol Agents and other allied law enforcement partners maintained two separate lines where rioters gathered,” but did not provide specific comments on the allegations against them due to the ongoing litigation.
In a powerful statement, Bertran described the chaos of that day: “They created a war zone that day. A war zone in a peaceful farming town in a California suburb.” His claim not only highlights the physical injuries he sustained but also raises critical questions about the use of force by federal agents during civil unrest.
As this situation develops, the implications for civil rights and law enforcement practices in the U.S. are significant. With the legal proceedings now underway, many are closely monitoring the case to see how it unfolds.
The public response to Bertran’s claim is expected to grow, as this incident resonates with broader issues of immigration enforcement and the rights of protesters. Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent situation.