To County, State, and Federal Representatives:
I am writing to you as a resident of the Pasadena/Altadena area to formally express grave concern regarding a highly disturbing incident that occurred this morning in Pasadena. A video appears to depict individuals impersonating law enforcement officers, specifically ICE agents. As you are well aware, the impersonation of a peace officer constitutes a criminal offense under both California and federal law.
This incident has justifiably caused widespread fear and confusion in our community. The public cannot be expected to comply with or trust individuals who present themselves as law enforcement when there is no clear method of verifying their legitimacy. We are particularly alarmed in light of recent national events in which elected officials have been targeted by individuals falsely presenting themselves as agents of the law.
Furthermore, we have confirmed reports that earlier this morning , multiple individuals were seen dressed as police officers and DEA agents. It remains unclear whether these individuals were, in fact, federal agents, members of local law enforcement, or unauthorized individuals acting under color of authority. This ambiguity is unacceptable. Residents have no reliable means of distinguishing between actual officers and impostors, especially when firearms are involved and no agency has provided notice or accountability.
Accordingly, we demand immediate legal and legislative intervention. At a minimum, we request:
-
An official investigation into the identities and legal authority of the individuals involved.
-
Transparency from ICE, DEA, and local law enforcement regarding their operations and coordination in our community.
-
Legislative reform to ensure that impersonation of law enforcement is prosecuted to the fullest extent and that proper identification protocols are enforced.
-
Emergency guidance issued to the public on how to verify the identity of law enforcement personnel during community encounters.
Failure to address this matter not only undermines public safety but erodes public trust in the institutions sworn to protect us. We urge your immediate attention.
Contact emails to send your letters to:
Contact emails to send your letters to:
kathryn@bos.lacounty.gov
SNemer@bos.lacounty.gov
Edmundo.Cuevas@sen.ca.gov
maile.plan@mail.house.gov
gavin.newsom@gov.ca.gov
ann.oleary@gov.ca.gov
