The Fullerton Police Department addressed community concerns regarding federal immigration enforcement involvement during an incident on January 22, 2026. At approximately 6:44 am, the police dispatch received a call from a resident on S. Highland, reporting police activity after witnessing a suspect fleeing on foot, armed with a handgun, in her apartment complex.<\/p>\n
According to police reports, officers were initially unaware that a police pursuit had occurred. Upon arrival, they discovered that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were attempting to stop a vehicle connected to an individual wanted for immigration violations. The suspect fled the scene on foot, prompting a response from local officers.<\/p>\n
During the pursuit, an uninvolved bystander, who was walking his dog in the area, alerted officers that he had seen a Hispanic male in a grey sweatshirt running while armed with a handgun.<\/p>\n
\u201cPublic safety is our main concern,\u201d said Fullerton Police Chief Jon Radus. \u201cWhile we were unaware it was an ICE operation, we assisted in establishing a perimeter for the federal agents to conduct their search.\u201d<\/p>\n
As the situation unfolded, additional ICE agents arrived, taking over the search efforts. Fullerton officers remained on-site, towing the suspect\u2019s abandoned vehicle, which was obstructing traffic on a city street.<\/p>\n
Chief Radus emphasized the importance of clear communication with the community. \u201cI have been informed that residents believe the Fullerton Police Department opened gates for ICE agents. This is not accurate; the ICE agents cut locks to gain access to the area,\u201d he clarified.<\/p>\n
Security concerns spread to local schools, leading the Community Services Supervisor, who oversees school resource officers, to speak with district officials. By 7:45 a.m., they confirmed a search for a potentially armed male was ongoing near Woodcrest School.<\/p>\n
Addressing community fears regarding ICE\u2019s presence, Chief Radus stated, \u201cI recognize the concerns and anxieties ICE brings to our neighborhoods. The Fullerton Police Department has worked diligently to build trust within our immigrant community. It is our hope that this investment assures residents that we are a resource they can depend on for safety, as we are not involved in immigration enforcement.\u201d<\/p>\n
He added, \u201cIncidents like this put local police in a challenging position. While we value our immigrant community, we also carry the responsibility to ensure the safety of all residents and our law enforcement partners. I commend our officers for their professionalism and sound judgment in a complex situation.\u201d<\/p>\n
The Fullerton Police Department continues to prioritize public safety while striving to maintain trust within the community.<\/p>\n
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