Community leaders condemn ICE arrest of US citizen in Illinois
Share and Follow


WAUKEGAN, Ill. (WGN) A 23-year-old U.S. citizen was arrested and released in Waukegan Monday as federal agents ramp up immigration arrests in Lake County.

The news comes amid accusations of heavy-handed policing and community leaders are calling it un-American.

“I didn’t resist. I complied and everything and they shoved me into the car,” Lake County resident Dariana Fajardo, who was arrested and released in Waukegan on Monday, said. “It was very scary, but there’s people who have been through a lot worse.”

In a written statement, Department of Homeland Security spokespeople said federal agents took action after Dariana, who was driving her car, allegedly tried to box in ICE vehicles. Dariana denied those accusations.

“He was telling me to get in and how can I get in if you’re shoving me into the seat,” Dariana said.

Waukegan Mayor Sam Cunningham tried to come to Dariana’s aid as well, to no avail.

“We’re in uncharted territory right now. It’s not what we think is right. It’s what they think is right,” Cunningham said.

Dariana’s family and other community leaders said the arrest was unwarranted.

“Clearly she had her passport with her. They didn’t even grab that. They threw it in the car, left it behind,” Dariana’s cousin Sandra Fajardo said.

U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider (D-Illinois) criticized the Trump administration’s immigration policies. Schneider and other community leaders went to Waukegan’s Veterans Memorial Plaza to protest.

“[Trump] is attacking every single American,” Schneider said.

“We have neighbors who are afraid to go to the grocery store. This is un-American,” State Sen. Mary Edly-Allen (D-31st District) added.

A number of community organizers hosted a “know your rights” event Tuesday, doing their best to try and educate the community on what to do should federal agents approach them.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Dolly Parton addresses health rumors in new video: 'I ain't dead yet!'

Dolly Parton dispels health rumors in new video: ‘I’m still alive!’

Dolly posted a video to social media captioned “I ain’t dead yet!”…
Indiana police arrest 16-year-old accused of raping 79-year-old woman

Teenager, 16, Arrested in Indiana for Alleged Assault on 79-year-old Woman

Editor’s Note: This story contains discussions of rape or sexual assault that…
Death of man found in Jacksonville river ruled a homicide, police say

Authorities Say Jacksonville River Death of Man is Confirmed as Homicide

The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office said the man, identified as Robert Velleca, was…
Pro-Palestinian agitators attack police as riot erupts in Dem-run city, officials say

Pro-Palestinian agitators attack police as riot erupts in Dem-run city, officials say

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! Between 200 and 300…
Blue city man with nearly 100 arrests accused of stabbing elderly victim has never served prison time

Blue city man with nearly 100 arrests accused of stabbing elderly victim has never served prison time

NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! An Indiana man accused…

Heartwarming Video: Siblings Share Emotional Reunion Before Brother’s Yearlong Navy Deployment

AUSTIN (KXAN) A student-athlete at a Texas middle school was reunited with…
National League Division Series playoff news today: Cubs vs. Milwaukee Brewers game 3 a must-win for Chicago

Today’s National League Division Series update: Chicago Cubs face a crucial Game 3 against the Milwaukee Brewers.

CHICAGO (WLS) — This is it: The Chicago Cubs either beat the…
Ex-FBI Director James Comey due in court for Justice Department case

Former FBI Director James Comey Set to Appear in Court for Justice Department Case

() Former FBI Director James Comey is due in court Wednesday for…