LOS ANGELES, CA — A federal appeals court has upheld a judicial order limiting racial profiling detentions in Los Angeles, prohibiting immigration agents from using a person’s language, accent, or type of job—such as day laborer work—as the sole basis for stopping them. This ruling marks a significant legal victory for Latino and working-class communities, who for years have been targeted in immigration raids based on stereotypes rather than concrete evidence.
What Does the Judicial Order Say?
The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a temporary order issued by Federal Judge Maame Ewusi-Mensah Frimpong on July 11, 2025, which prohibits:
- Stopping someone without reasonable suspicion of an immigration law violation
- Using language spoken, racial or ethnic appearance, presence at locations like bus stops or day laborer hiring sites, or type of work as the sole basis for suspicion
The judge concluded that the plaintiffs—including day laborers and U.S. citizens—will likely prove that immigration agents have been conducting unjustified patrols and denying access to legal counsel.
Why Is This Decision Important?
Los Angeles has long been a major target for immigration raids, especially during the Trump administration. According to the court, immigration agents have been using racial profiling as a detention tool, which violates basic constitutional rights.
“The government cannot justify illegal actions based on racial profiling.”
Said Mark Rosenbaum, attorney for the plaintiffs.
At Ayuda California, We Protect Your Rights
We know many people in our communities live in fear of being unjustly detained. That’s why at Ayuda California, we want to remind you:
- Speaking Spanish is not a reason for detention
- Being a day laborer or working at a carwash does not make you suspicious
- You have the right to remain silent and request a lawyer
- Even without papers, you have legal rights in the U.S.
The Legal Support You Need. The Peace of Mind You Deserve.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of unjust detention, racial profiling, or an immigration raid without cause, we are here to help.
Free and confidential consultation
Experienced personal injury lawyers—regardless of your immigration status
Spanish-language support and no discrimination based on immigration status
👉 Talk to a lawyer now
👉 Learn your rights as an immigrant
Ayuda California
The medical care you need. The money you deserve. And always—your dignity first.
