Families Detained and Children Restricted During FBI Gambling Investigation in Idaho
Chaos at La Catedral Arena Amid FBI Gambling Investigation
What began as a typical family outing at the La Catedral Arena in Wilder, Idaho, quickly escalated into confusion and distress when a large law enforcement operation unfolded. The peaceful racetrack, a popular spot for the local Spanish-speaking community, was abruptly taken over by federal and local officers conducting a major investigation into illegal horse betting activities.
Massive FBI Raid Sparks Concern Among Community Members
Located west of Boise, the arena regularly attracts hundreds of visitors who gather to enjoy food, raffles, and local vendors. However, the usual weekend festivities were replaced by fear as helicopters and drones hovered overhead, and heavily armed officers surrounded the area. Approximately 200 officials from various agencies, including the FBI, Homeland Security, Drug Enforcement Administration, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Canyon County Sheriff’s Office, and Idaho State Police, participated in the operation.
Authorities confirmed that four individuals were arrested on charges related to illegal gambling. Those detained include Ivan Tellez from Wilder; Samuel Bejarano and Dayana Fajardo from Nyssa, Oregon; and Alejandro Estrada from Buhl.
Immigration Concerns Arise Amidst Gambling Investigation
While the investigation focused on illegal betting, eyewitness accounts and immigration advocates reported a troubling side to the raid. Many families, including U.S. citizens and legal residents, were stopped and questioned about their immigration status. Disturbingly, some children were reportedly separated from their parents and had their hands bound with zip ties as officers moved through the crowd.
Lawyers and Witnesses Describe Distressing Scenes
Nikki Ramirez-Smith, an immigration attorney in Nampa, described the panic she encountered upon arriving at the scene, with families anxiously seeking information about their detained relatives. Many were confused as to why a community gathering had turned into what appeared to be an immigration enforcement action.
Utah-based lawyer Viviana Gonzalez recounted that her family, who operated a clothing booth at the racetrack, faced detainment. Through a video call, she witnessed officers detaining and zip-tying her parents and also restraining her 13-year-old sister, a U.S. citizen, who was released hours later. Gonzalez spoke about the profound emotional impact the raid had on her family.
Escalation Outside the Racetrack and Calls for Accountability
Reports from the scene noted that tensions heightened when bystanders attempted to approach the racetrack entrance to check on detained loved ones. Law enforcement responded by deploying rubber bullets to disperse the crowd.
Most individuals detained were released by night, but many left without clear answers or explanations. Local advocacy organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union and PODER of Idaho, have called for an independent investigation into the incident, highlighting concerns over the blurred lines between a gambling probe and immigration enforcement given the heavy presence of immigration officers.
Ongoing Uncertainty and Community Demand for Transparency
Federal authorities canceled a planned press briefing about the raid. Meanwhile, affected families continue to seek clarity and accountability for an event that transformed an ordinary day at the races into one filled with fear and uncertainty.
