Federal Raids on California Cannabis Farms Uncover Undocumented Minors, Spark Clashes
Federal immigration agents, supported by the National Guard, conducted simultaneous raids on two Southern California cannabis farms last week, arresting dozens—including undocumented minors. The operations targeted Glass House Farms in Camarillo and another site in Carpinteria.
Footage showed ICE agents detaining workers as hundreds of protesters arrived. Ten undocumented minors, including eight unaccompanied children, were found at the Camarillo site. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rodney Scott criticized Governor Gavin Newsom on social media, calling the situation “Newsom’s California.”
Governor Newsom condemned the raids, prompting a sharp response from the Department of Homeland Security, which asked: “Why are there children working at a marijuana facility, Gavin?”
Protesters later blocked roads, and law enforcement deployed tear gas and non-lethal rounds. A man was seen allegedly firing at federal officers; the FBI is offering a $50,000 reward for information.
Former President Trump responded by granting ICE and DHS “total authorization” to protect themselves from assaults during operations, vowing harsh consequences for anyone attacking officers.