Maryland Homeowner Accused of Exploiting Immigrant Workers

Woman allegedly called ICE on construction crew to avoid paying $10,000 bill

Mar. 27, 2026 at 6:35am

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A Maryland homeowner is under scrutiny for allegedly reporting a crew of six Guatemalan immigrant workers to ICE in order to avoid paying a $10,000 bill for a roofing renovation project on her property. Video footage shows the homeowner assisting ICE officers in detaining the workers as they were completing the job, leaving their tools and van behind.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the exploitation of immigrant workers in the construction industry, where they are vulnerable to wage theft and retaliation from unscrupulous employers. It also raises concerns about the use of immigration enforcement as a tool to avoid paying for services rendered.

The details

According to reports, the homeowner hired the six Guatemalan workers to complete a roofing renovation project on her property in Cambridge, Maryland. As the job neared completion, the homeowner allegedly called ICE and provided a ladder for the officers to access the roof and detain the workers. The workers' tools and van were left behind as they were taken into custody.

  • The incident unfolded earlier this week.
  • The workers had spent three days on the house remodeling project.

The players

Maryland Homeowner

The homeowner who allegedly hired the Guatemalan workers and then called ICE on them to avoid paying the $10,000 bill.

Guatemalan Immigrant Workers

A crew of six Guatemalan workers hired by the homeowner to complete a roofing renovation project.

Bryan Polanco

A co-worker of the detained Guatemalan workers who live-streamed the incident for approximately 30 minutes.

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What they’re saying

“Seeing it is not the same as experiencing it. I've seen many videos, and sadly today I had to experience it.”

— Bryan Polanco, Co-worker

What’s next

As of March 27, 2026, there has been no reported arrest or charge against the property owner, nor any indication that the workers have filed a civil claim for the unpaid wages.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the exploitation of immigrant workers in the construction industry, where they are vulnerable to wage theft and retaliation from unscrupulous employers. It also raises concerns about the use of immigration enforcement as a tool to avoid paying for services rendered.