79-year-old U.S. citizen files $50 million civil rights claim after Van Nuys car wash ICE raid

Key Takeaways:

• The claimant is a 79-year-old U.S. citizen and Van Nuys business owner.
• He alleges he was violently body slammed by federal agents during the raid.
• The raid took place at his car wash on September 9, 2025.
• A $50 million civil rights claim has been filed.
• The claim names the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, among others.

Background

On September 9, 2025, federal authorities conducted an immigration operation at a Van Nuys car wash owned by a 79-year-old U.S. citizen. According to the business owner, the scheduled raid unfolded without prior warning or indication that his establishment would be targeted.

The Alleged Incident

The owner maintains that federal agents tackled him to the ground, causing him physical harm. He describes the encounter as being “violently body slammed and pinned,” highlighting that the forceful measures took him by surprise. The incident is the crux of the $50 million civil rights claim he has filed.

Legal Action Filed

In the aftermath of the alleged forceful confrontation, the car wash owner has taken significant legal steps. He filed a federal civil rights claim against the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and other agencies. The claim questions the legality of such tactics used against a U.S. citizen, citing excessive force during immigration-related operations.

Implications for Enforcement

While the details of any ongoing investigation remain unclear, the claim raises questions about how immigration laws are enforced, and whether the scenarios sometimes put U.S. citizens at risk. With the case receiving media attention, discussions about agency protocols and checks on federal power may gain traction.

What Lies Ahead

This civil rights claim seeks $50 million in damages, reflecting the gravity of the accusations. No additional information was provided regarding the agencies’ response or the timeline for further legal proceedings. However, the owner’s action underscores the broader debate over federal enforcement methods and the rights of individuals who say they were wronged in such operations.