UPDATE: Just confirmed, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is under fire for allegedly spreading misinformation regarding a recent incident involving an undocumented immigrant. The controversy centers on claims that ICE attempted to force Yuriana Julia “Juli” Pelaez Calderon to self-deport, a story now labeled a hoax.
In a post on social media platform X dated July 1, Bass described a dramatic scenario where Calderon, a mother from Los Angeles, was purportedly taken from her car and held in a warehouse by ICE agents. This narrative fueled public outrage and concern about federal law enforcement practices. “No hearing. Just fear. This doesn’t make anyone safer,” Bass claimed, igniting a firestorm of reactions.
However, the situation took a drastic turn on October 5, when Calderon was charged with conspiracy and making false statements to federal authorities. The allegations suggest that her dramatic claims about being ambushed by armed men at a Jack in the Box parking lot were fabricated as part of an elaborate scheme to defraud the public.
Federal prosecutors revealed that Calderon and her family even launched a GoFundMe page to solicit donations, exploiting the emotional weight of her fabricated story. U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli condemned the actions, stating, “Dangerous rhetoric that ICE agents are ‘kidnapping’ illegal immigrants is being recklessly peddled by politicians and echoed in the media to inflame the public and discredit our courageous federal agents.”
This unfolding drama raises critical questions about the responsibility of public officials in disseminating information that can incite fear and misinformation. The charges against Calderon highlight the risks of sensationalism, especially in sensitive matters involving immigration.
As this story develops, community members and officials are urged to consider the broader implications of spreading unverified claims. The fallout from this incident not only impacts the individuals involved but also affects public perception of law enforcement agencies.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the case, and further developments are expected in the coming days. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for accountability and accuracy in public discourse, especially amid escalating tensions around immigration policies.
Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent story as it continues to unfold.
