In August, a high‑school senior from Reseda was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) while walking his dog. The arrest occurred just days before students were scheduled to return to classes in the Los Angeles Unified School District.
Arrest and Initial Detention
Benjamin Guerrero‑Cruz was taken into custody during the incident. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) later confirmed the teen was an illegal alien from Chile who overstayed his visa by more than two years. The visa waiver program that allowed his entry required him to depart the United States on March 15, 2023.
DHS Statement and Legal Status
On Friday, DHS issued a statement that read: “Benjamin Guerrero‑Cruz, an illegal alien from Chile, overstayed his visa by more than two years, abusing the Visa Waiver Program under which he entered the United States, which required him to depart the United States on March 15, 2023.” The statement also noted that the teen was granted bond on November 17.
Bond and Supervised Release
Following the bond, Guerrero‑Cruz was placed into supervised release as the federal government continues to push forward with the removal process. DHS added that he will have periodic mandatory check‑ins with ICE law enforcement to ensure he is abiding by the terms of her release.
Transfer Between Detention Facilities
Initially, Guerrero‑Cruz was held at the Adelanto detention center. He was later transferred to a facility in Arizona as part of the ongoing removal proceedings.
Family Reunification
After the bond and release, the teen was reunited with his family in Reseda. The reunion was announced by his family, who expressed relief that the months of fear and uncertainty at the hands of ICE had ended.
Congressional Response
California congresswoman Luz Rivas announced the reunion on the House floor. She said, “My heart goes out to his family, especially his mother, who can hold her son again after months of fear and uncertainty at the hands of ICE.”
Rivas’ Statement on the Situation
Rivas added, “No family should ever have to live through this.” Her remarks highlighted the emotional toll that ICE detentions can have on families.
Inform Act Introduction
During the same session, Rivas introduced the Inform Act. The proposed legislation would require ICE agents to notify family members of a detainee’s transfer within 24 hours.
Current Legal Gap
The current law does not mandate a 24‑hour notification period. Rivas argued that the Inform Act would fill this gap and provide families with timely information.
Impact on Families
Families of detainees often experience prolonged uncertainty about the whereabouts of their loved ones. The Inform Act seeks to reduce this uncertainty by ensuring families receive updates promptly.
DHS Confirmation of Release Terms
The DHS statement confirmed that Guerrero‑Cruz must comply with periodic mandatory check‑ins. These check‑ins are designed to monitor his adherence to the conditions of his supervised release.
Timeline of Events
- August: Guerrero‑Cruz detained while walking his dog.
- March 15, 2023: Required departure date under visa waiver.
- November 17: Bond granted.
- Thursday: Congresswoman Luz Rivas announced reunion.
- Current: Supervised release with mandatory check‑ins.
Legal Framework
The Visa Waiver Program allows travelers to enter the United States for short stays without a visa. Overstaying the permitted period triggers removal proceedings.
Role of ICE
ICE is responsible for enforcing immigration laws, including detaining individuals who violate visa conditions. They also oversee supervised release arrangements.
Adelanto Detention Center
The Adelanto facility is one of several detention centers operated by ICE across the country. It houses individuals awaiting removal or legal proceedings.
Arizona Transfer
The transfer to Arizona was part of the removal process. It reflects ICE’s practice of moving detainees between facilities based on case status.
Community Reaction
Local residents in Reseda expressed relief and support for the teen’s return. Community members noted the importance of family reunification after prolonged detention.
Key Takeaways
- Benjamin Guerrero‑Cruz was detained by ICE in August and has been released on bond.
- He is now under supervised release with mandatory check‑ins.
- Congresswoman Luz Rivas introduced the Inform Act to improve family notifications.
The case underscores the complexities of immigration enforcement and the impact on families. The introduction of the Inform Act may offer a new layer of transparency for those affected by ICE detentions.
Hi, I’m Ethan R. Coleman, a dedicated journalist and content creator at newsoflosangeles.com — your trusted source for the latest news, insights, and stories from Los Angeles and beyond.
With over 7 years of experience in digital media, I specialize in reporting on breaking news, local culture, community affairs, and impactful events shaping the City of Angels. My passion lies in telling stories that matter — stories that inform, engage, and empower readers.
At newsoflosangeles.com, I focus on delivering accurate, unbiased, and timely content while keeping our audience at the heart of every story. Whether it’s the latest city developments, cultural highlights, or human-interest stories, I aim to bring clarity, context, and credibility to every piece I publish.
When I’m not reporting, you’ll likely find me exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Los Angeles, meeting locals, and discovering new stories worth telling.
Stay connected, stay informed — and thanks for being part of our community at newsoflosangeles.com.
