The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) reported on Monday that a person living in the U.S. illegally, who has a significant criminal record, is still at large after nearly hitting a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer with his vehicle during an arrest attempt in California.
On March 25, ICE tried to detain Za Li, a Laotian national, in Sacramento. According to DHS, he was pulled over while driving.
During the stop, Li attempted to escape, making a dangerous move toward the officer. Fortunately, the officer was unharmed, but ICE officers did use a Taser in the course of the situation. Li managed to flee and is currently unaccounted for. Lauren Biss, Acting DHS Assistant Secretary, remarked that this incident is part of a concerning trend involving vehicle attacks.
Lee has a troubling history with the law. A federal immigration judge had ordered his deportation back in 2010, and his record includes offenses such as vehicle theft, larceny, conspiracy, multiple DUI charges, resisting arrest, battery, and felony firearm possession.
DHS also pointed out that this incident took place amid a series of webinars hosted by certain Democratic officials who were providing advice to undocumented immigrants on how to avoid ICE and handle encounters with immigration authorities. Among those mentioned were California Governor Gavin Newsom, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, and U.S. Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Dan Goldman.
These officials have consistently urged the previous administration to halt its deportation efforts aimed at criminal illegal immigrants. In a statement, DHS emphasized the need for politicians and media to temper their language and discourage violence against ICE law enforcement.
Anyone with information about Li’s whereabouts is encouraged to reach out to the ICE tip line at 866-347-2423 or contact them online.
