Los Angeles, California — Federal authorities have charged David Huerta, the president of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) California, with conspiracy related to an immigration enforcement operation in downtown Los Angeles last week. The 58-year-old union leader has been taken into custody since Friday, facing a felony charge that could lead to up to six years in prison.

Huerta is slated to make his initial appearance in federal court on Monday afternoon after being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center. The U.S. attorney’s office in Los Angeles has confirmed details of his charges, which stem from an incident during an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid targeting businesses alleged to be employing undocumented workers.

On the same day, California Senators Adam Schiff and Alex Padilla sent a letter to both the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice, calling for a review of Huerta’s arrest and the circumstances surrounding it. Labor leaders from various states have rallied for his release, citing concerns over his treatment during the raid.

According to the criminal complaint filed against Huerta, ICE executed search warrants at multiple business locations on June 5, focusing on suspected illegal employment practices. An affidavit from a supervisory special agent with Homeland Security Investigations indicates that news of the raids spread rapidly across the city.

Witnesses reported that Huerta arrived at the scene alongside other demonstrators who were protesting against the immigration enforcement actions. The agent noted that the group, including Huerta, appeared to be coordinating efforts to obstruct law enforcement operations, with Huerta himself reportedly yelling at officers and obstructing access to the area.

The conflict escalated as Huerta positioned himself in front of a vehicle gate, effectively barring law enforcement from entering or leaving the location. Authorities indicated that they warned Huerta he could face arrest if he continued to impede operations. Despite the warnings, he allegedly responded with hostility, stating he could not hear instructions due to his mask.

As a law enforcement van approached, Huerta remained in its path. In an attempt to move him, officers reportedly used physical force, resulting in Huerta being pushed to the ground and subsequently handcuffed.

Outside the court, Huerta’s cousin, Marta Gonzales, expressed the family’s anguish over his situation. Speaking to supporters, she described him as being in good spirits and emphasized the widespread concern among relatives who are watching the developments closely from around the world.

In a statement released earlier, Huerta said the events surrounding his arrest are part of a larger struggle against injustice. He highlighted the plight of hard-working individuals in the community, urging collective action against what he characterized as systemic wrongdoing.

The case has sparked discussions regarding immigration policies and law enforcement practices, with many advocacy groups calling for compassion and change in how immigrant communities are treated.