SEIU Leader Arrested During ICE Protest, Charged with Conspiracy

Los Angeles, CA - David Huerta, the president of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) California, was arrested and charged with 'conspiracy to impede an officer' during a protest against an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid earlier this week. Huerta was among a group of demonstrators who gathered to protest the operation, claiming it unfairly targeted immigrant communities.

According to law enforcement officials, Huerta and others allegedly interfered with officers attempting to carry out their duties. The specific actions that led to the conspiracy charge have not been fully detailed. Huerta was released on a $50,000 bond following his arrest.

In a statement released after his release, Huerta maintained his innocence and asserted his commitment to nonviolent resistance. "We will not be silenced," he stated. "We will continue to stand in solidarity with immigrant families and fight for justice." The SEIU has been a vocal advocate for immigrant rights and has actively campaigned against stricter immigration enforcement policies.

The arrest has sparked outrage among labor and immigrant rights activists, who claim Huerta's arrest is politically motivated. Critics argue that the charges are an attempt to suppress dissent and intimidate those who oppose the current administration's immigration policies. The case is expected to draw significant attention as it proceeds through the legal system, further fueling the debate over immigration enforcement and the rights of protesters.