Video at the bottom!
Adrian Martinez, a 20-year-old U.S. citizen, has come forward to share his experience after being arrested during a recent immigration raid in Pico Rivera. He spent nearly a week in custody following an incident where he attempted to defend a Walmart worker being questioned by immigration authorities.
Martinez insists he did not assault any officers, despite facing charges of conspiracy to impede or injure an officer, a felony. He describes the chaotic scene, recalling feeling scared and confused as he intervened during the raid, which occurred on June 17th. Witnesses reported that immigration agents aggressively detained the janitor, prompting Martinez to step in.
In a video circulated online, Martinez shows the injuries he sustained from being tackled by federal agents. He points to a back contusion along with various bruises and scratches from the altercation. He recounts the moment he felt a chokehold during his arrest, emphasizing the fear and anger he felt at the time. “No one should be treated that way,” he asserts, expressing his belief in the right to speak out against perceived injustice.
Martinez’s actions have since led to his termination from Walmart, yet he remains resolute, stating, “I don’t think of myself as a hero. I was just trying to stick up for someone who couldn’t speak up for himself.” His family, through their attorneys, is actively challenging the charges against him. As the legal proceedings continue, Martinez is scheduled to return to court, defending his actions during a tense confrontation with immigration enforcement.
