NORRISTOWN, Pa. (KYW Newsradio) — Family members of a Montgomery County man who was arrested by ICE earlier this week said the raid left them “traumatized” and fearful, and they are demanding answers and accountability.
ICE agents raided an Eagleville home on Monday and took Jose Manuel Cordova Lopez into custody.
Accompanied by a translator on Wednesday, cousin Brenda Lopez said federal agents went too far in the name of immigration enforcement.
“My family experienced an intervention that we consider disproportionate and deeply traumatic. Over 20 vehicles and a massive deployment were used to enter our home,” she said.
Another cousin, Guadalupe, said the raid has deeply affected even those who weren’t arrested.
“I don’t think that it was fair,” she said. “My little brothers now are traumatized. Every little noise — somebody knocks at the door — we jump, we get scared.”
A day after elected officials gathered near the home to condemn officials’ actions, advocacy groups like Pennsylvania Immigration Coalition, Unides Para Servir Norristown, and Montco Community Watch came together in Norristown to support the family and decry federal immigration policy.
Family members said they believe they are entitled to compensation for damages caused during the raid. They are also calling for limits on local law enforcement’s collaboration with ICE.
KYW Newsradio reached out to ICE for comment but has not heard back.