ICE Arrests Parent Near Chula Vista Elementary School

CHULA VISTA, CA — A parent was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents during morning drop-off outside an elementary school in the South Bay area of San Diego County.

The arrest happened Wednesday morning near Camarena Elementary School in Chula Vista. The woman had been ordered deported in absentia by a San Diego immigration judge in July 2022, according to Patrick Divver, field office director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in San Diego.

"The arrest was part of ICE's ongoing enforcement efforts and was resolved promptly, safely, and not on the school grounds," Divver said in a statement sent Thursday to Patch.

Chula Vista Elementary School District confirmed the arrest the arrest took place duirng morning drop-off outside school property.

"The Chula Vista Elementary School District is committed to supporting every student, regardless of immigration status, and our highest priorities are our students' safety, education, and well-being," district spokesperson Giovanna Castro said in a statement sent to Patch. "The district remains committed to reassuring families that CVESD remains a safe space for all students."

The arrest prompted Superintendent Eduardo Reyes to inform families and staff in a letter that the district has "strong protocols in place to prevent unauthorized access" to schools.

Reyes recommended that families have a plan in place in the event they are unable to pick a student up.

"Ensuring a safe and welcoming school environment for all Chula Vista Elementary School District students is our highest priority," he wrote. "We understand this may cause concern, and we want to reassure you that our schools remain safe spaces for all students."