ICE Detains Potbelly Pedro in Dramatic TikTok Arrest

Controversial detention sparks outrage on social media over immigration enforcement tactics.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents have detained a man known as "Potbelly Pedro" in Westbury, New York, in a highly publicized and dramatic arrest that was captured on video and shared widely on TikTok. The incident has sparked outrage on social media over the agency's immigration enforcement tactics.

Why it matters

The arrest of Potbelly Pedro has reignited debates around immigration policy, border security, and the role of federal agencies like ICE in local communities. Critics argue the arrest was heavy-handed and raised concerns about racial profiling and the treatment of undocumented immigrants.

The details

According to reports, ICE agents approached Potbelly Pedro, whose real name is unknown, while he was working at a local sandwich shop. Footage shows agents forcibly detaining him and placing him in a van as onlookers shouted in protest. ICE has not provided details on the specific reasons for the arrest or Pedro's immigration status.

  • The incident occurred on February 12, 2026.

The players

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

A federal law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security responsible for enforcing immigration laws.

Potbelly Pedro

The nickname of the individual detained by ICE agents in Westbury, New York.

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What they’re saying

“We've been stuffing these illegals with our tax money for way too long. That belly didn't come from hard work. It came from the American taxpayer.”

— SGTnewsNetworkX, Twitter user (Twitter)

What’s next

The incident is likely to prompt further scrutiny of ICE's enforcement tactics and renewed calls for immigration reform.

The takeaway

This arrest highlights the ongoing tensions and controversies surrounding immigration enforcement in the United States, with critics arguing that heavy-handed tactics by agencies like ICE erode trust in local communities and unfairly target vulnerable populations.