On July 10, 2025, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), supported by National Guard troops, launched coordinated raids on two Glass House Farms marijuana facilities in Ventura County, California. The operation—featuring military-style vehicles and aerial surveillance—resulted in the discovery of 10 undocumented minors, eight of whom were unaccompanied, at the Camarillo site. These findings raise serious concerns about child labor violations within California’s state-licensed cannabis sector. Violent clashes erupted between over 500 pro-immigrant protesters and federal agents, with rocks thrown and at least one alleged gunshot fired. The FBI has since offered a $50,000 reward for information on the shooter. Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Rodney Scott praised the raids as a necessary step toward curbing illegal labor and reinforcing the Trump administration’s border security agenda.
California Leadership Under Fire
The raids have sparked fierce backlash from California officials, particularly Governor Gavin Newsom, who condemned the use of force but remained silent on the presence of undocumented minors in the workforce. Glass House Farms, a prominent cannabis producer, is now under investigation for labor violations, with previous lawsuits suggesting a longstanding pattern of exploitation. The incident shines a spotlight on the lack of rigorous oversight in California’s cannabis industry, where profits often rely on illegal and vulnerable labor. The escalation of violence during protests underscores the challenges federal authorities face when enforcing immigration laws in sanctuary states.
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A Defining Federal Statement
This operation serves as a stark declaration of the Trump administration’s commitment to enforcing immigration laws and protecting American labor. The use of federal force in a state that often resists immigration crackdowns highlights the growing rift between state and federal priorities. With the discovery of child labor, organized resistance from protesters, and potential criminal activity, the administration is positioning itself as a defender of lawful labor practices and border integrity. The events in Ventura County make a statement in immigration enforcement and labor exploitation in politically polarized states.
