Photo: 400tmax / iStock Unreleased / Getty Images
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has refuted claims that it conducted an immigration raid without a criminal search warrant at Nutrition Bar Confectioners in Cato. The raid, which took place on September 4, resulted in the detention of 57 undocumented immigrants. Of those detained, 52 individuals were returned to their countries of origin. The DHS spokesperson stated that the operation was court-authorized and part of an ongoing investigation.
Governor Kathy Hochul criticized the raid, calling it "un-American" and suggesting that proper warrants were not used. She expressed concerns about the impact on families, noting that some parents were separated from their children during the operation. Hochul vowed to seek answers from federal officials, including Border Czar Tom Homan, particularly after learning about three mothers separated from their babies, one of whom was still nursing.
Federal prosecutor John Sarcone warned that more large-scale workplace enforcement actions could follow. He emphasized that employers hiring unauthorized non-citizens would face consequences. Sarcone clarified that five of the detained individuals were criminally charged for illegally re-entering the United States, while the rest were detained pending deportation proceedings.
Mark Schmidt, owner of Nutrition Bar Confectioners, expressed shock at the raid, stating that his employees had legal documentation. He described the raid as a "military-style assault" and shared his concerns about the impact on the community.
Despite criticism from Governor Hochul and other officials, the DHS maintained that worksite enforcement is crucial for protecting public safety and national security. The agency emphasized its commitment to targeting illegal employment networks and rescuing individuals from labor trafficking and exploitation.
Some of those arrested faced charges related to child endangerment, DUI, and repeated illegal re-entries. The DHS spokesperson highlighted the broader issue of identity theft and fraud associated with illegal employment practices.