Palm Springs Restaurant Speaks Out After ICE Raid: “Fear Still Lingers”

It’s been just over a week since U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detained individuals in the parking lot between Albertsons and Loco Charlie’s Mexican Grill in Palm Springs — and for those who work and dine in the area, the fear hasn’t gone away.

“I can still see their faces,” said the kitchen manager at Loco Charlie’s, who asked to remain anonymous. “They were filled with fear. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

He recalled the scene on that Monday morning vividly, saying it was shocking to see ICE agents detaining people right outside the restaurant — something he never imagined would happen in his own community.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re a citizen, resident, or have a work permit. What I saw made me feel like anyone could be next,” he said.

Though not born in the U.S., the manager said he was raised here and feels like this country is home. But recent events have shaken that sense of belonging.

“This country is not the same as when I came here. I’ve worked hard, paid taxes, gone to school. I feel like those things don’t matter anymore.”

The fear has also had a real economic impact. Loco Charlie’s owner, Charlie Chavez, said the summer season was already difficult — but the ICE activity has made it worse.

“Summer’s already slow. We’re down 40%, and now this. People are scared to come out. But we can’t afford to close,” Chavez said. “We’re doing everything we can — watching food costs, labor, and utilities. But this was the worst Monday we’ve had all season.”

Still, the staff remains hopeful.

“I love this country,” said the kitchen manager. “My life is here. My friends are here. I just want people to give us a chance to prove that we come here with dreams — not to harm anyone.”

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.