ICE Raids Impact Gun Violence Prevention Workers in Los Angeles 2026

In the wake of last June's massive ICE raids in Los Angeles, gun violence prevention workers have seen their jobs forever changed. The raids, which targeted immigrant communities, have created a climate of fear that makes it harder for violence interrupters to do their jobs effectively. As federal immigration enforcement continues, these workers are adapting to new challenges while trying to keep neighborhoods safe.

How ICE Raids Altered the Landscape for Violence Interrupters

The first major immigration enforcement operation of the second Trump administration saw hundreds of federal agents descend on Los Angeles. Immigrants were swept up at Home Depots, car washes, food stands, and garment factories. In Latino and immigrant communities, residents became afraid to go to work, kids stayed home from school, and families relied on friends and neighbors for grocery runs, too scared to go outside themselves. For violence interrupters – the people who go out every day hoping to prevent gun violence – the raids were a fork-in-the-road moment that forever changed their approach to work.

Voices from the Frontlines

“Kids are living afraid instead of going to school,” said Violet Gallegos, a youth services and gang intervention worker serving her home community of South Los Angeles. “It’s created a system where you’re keeping people broke, poor, and leaving communities [like this one] still marginalized.” Salvador Marquez, who works for an organization serving LA’s Harbor Gateway area, added, “It’s created a lot of fear, a lot of anger and a lot of division.” The Guardian spoke to three violence intervention workers in California about how ongoing federal immigration enforcement is affecting their ability to keep neighborhoods safe.

The Ripple Effects on Community Safety

The fear instilled by ICE raids has made residents less likely to cooperate with violence prevention efforts. When people are afraid to leave their homes, they are less likely to report crimes, attend community meetings, or participate in programs designed to reduce gun violence. This breakdown in trust and communication undermines the very foundation of violence intervention work, which relies on strong relationships and community engagement.

Adapting Strategies in a New Reality

Violence interrupters are now forced to adapt their strategies. Some are focusing more on virtual outreach, while others are working to build trust with immigrant communities by addressing their immediate fears about deportation. The challenge is immense, as the constant threat of raids keeps many residents in a state of high anxiety, making it difficult to focus on long-term violence prevention.

Data Snapshot: Impact of ICE Raids on Community Safety

Key Takeaways for Communities and Policymakers

• ICE raids have created a climate of fear that hinders violence prevention efforts.
• Community trust and cooperation are essential for effective violence intervention.
• Violence interrupters are adapting by using virtual outreach and addressing deportation fears.
• Policymakers must consider the unintended consequences of immigration enforcement on public safety.

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