Congresswoman Julia Brownley renewed her demand for answers from the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) regarding conditions and operations at the ICE Processing Center in Camarillo.
Brownley sent a letter to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem and Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons raising serious concerns about transparency, safety and the treatment of detainees at the facility.
Brownley’s letter follows reports from constituents and local advocacy groups of ambulances and first responders repeatedly seen outside the Camarillo center. She stressed that, given the documented pattern of abuse and inhumane treatment at ICE facilities nationwide, DHS and ICE must provide immediate accountability and oversight.
In the letter, Brownley pressed for detailed information on the scope and legality of immigration enforcement activities at the facility, including whether U.S. citizens, veterans or DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipients have been detained, and whether detainees are being afforded adequate legal counsel, medical care and safe conditions.
She also demanded information on whether detainees’ rights are being protected and what steps ICE is taking to ensure compliance with federal law.
“The people of Ventura County deserve transparency and accountability from DHS and ICE. We cannot and must not turn a blind eye to reports of mistreatment, unsafe conditions or violations of due process,” said Brownley. “Congress has a responsibility to conduct oversight of federal agencies, and I intend to fulfill that duty on behalf of my constituents.”
In addition to demanding answers, Brownley formally requested access to conduct a site visit of the Camarillo facility as part of her Congressional oversight responsibilities. She asked for a detailed response to her questions no later than Sept. 19.