Santa Barbara County District Attorney John Savrnoch announced Monday that his office is investigating an incident in which federal immigration agents detained and allegedly injured a 20-year-old special-education student in Santa Maria. The incident, which occurred on Oct. 21, involved the student being detained a half-mile from Santa Maria High School, sustaining a broken wrist, a black eye, and bruises before being released in the same area.
Savrnoch characterized the reports about the incident as "deeply troubling." He stated that he recognized the concern and anger the incident had caused throughout the community. He emphasized that every person deserves dignity and respect, and allegations of force by law enforcement must be seriously examined, regardless of the agency involved.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) confirmed that agents conducted a targeted enforcement operation in Santa Maria. During this operation, they encountered an individual believed to match the description of the person they sought. However, the detained individual was identified as a U.S. citizen with limited verbal communication skills.
After the student arrived on campus, administrators called an ambulance, which transported him to Marian Regional Medical Center for treatment of his injuries. The detention occurred near Enos Drive and South Broadway. Police reportedly obtained surveillance video that captured at least part of the event.
The District Attorney’s Office is coordinating with appropriate authorities and has communicated with the Santa Maria Police Department to gather information and determine subsequent actions. Savrnoch stressed the importance of uncovering and impartially evaluating all available facts before reaching any conclusions regarding potential criminal conduct.
While no formal request for charges has been received, Savrnoch noted that ethical rules prevent him from commenting further due to the ongoing investigation, to protect its integrity and fairness. He affirmed the District Attorney’s Office’s role in upholding the law, protecting public safety, and ensuring that decisions related to potential criminal conduct are made fairly, objectively, and in accordance with California law, regardless of who is involved.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta’s office also released a statement concerning the incident. Bonta’s office indicated awareness of the situation but could not comment on potential or ongoing investigations to protect their integrity. The statement affirmed Attorney General Bonta’s commitment to holding ICE accountable and advocating for California’s immigrant communities.
