Chelsea family sues ICE after Mother's Day arrest

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A Chelsea family has filed a lawsuit against federal officials, alleging that ICE agents used excessive force to arrest the father in front of his children as they were heading to church on Mother's Day last year. The lawsuit claims the agents smashed a car window, pulled out the father, and slammed him to the ground, traumatizing the family, including the couple's three U.S. citizen children.

Why it matters

The case highlights concerns over aggressive immigration enforcement tactics and their impact on families, especially the trauma inflicted on children. It also raises questions about the justification and oversight of such operations, as the family alleges the agents did not properly identify themselves or provide a reason for the stop.

The details

According to the lawsuit, on May 11, 2025, ICE agents in unmarked vehicles pulled over the family's car just blocks from their home. The agents, some wearing masks, approached the vehicle and demanded the father, Daniel Flores Martinez, roll down his window. When he did not immediately comply, they shattered the window, yanked Flores out of the car, and slammed him to the ground, all while the family, including three children ages 14, 12, and 3, watched in distress. Flores, who is now residing in Mexico, was detained and taken away in an unmarked vehicle, leaving his wife, Kenia Guerrero, and their children traumatized.

• The incident occurred on May 11, 2025, as part of an ICE operation dubbed 'Operation Patriot'.
• The family filed an administrative complaint against ICE last June, and the lawsuit was filed this week after the required six-month waiting period.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge will decide on whether to allow Daniel Flores Martinez, who is currently residing in Mexico, to participate in the lawsuit.