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George Ritz, a 25-year-old US citizen and Army veteran, spent three days in federal custody after being caught up in a massive immigration enforcement action on a cannabis farm in Southern California. Meanwhile, he said he was denied access to his lawyer, was blocked from contacting his family, and was placed in isolated cells without being charged with a crime.
Retes, a security guard at Glasshouse Farm in Camarillo, said he was on his way to work on July 10, when he encountered an ice obstacle amid protests and federal agents. According to Rets, officers smashed the windows of his car, sprayed him with pepper spray and tear gas, forcing him to be removed from the vehicle. Despite his compliance and repeated attempts to identify himself as a US citizen, two officers placed their knees on his back and another officer kneeled over his neck.
George Rickes, US citizen has been detained at Camarillo Marijuana Farm (courtesy of George Rickles) (@ufwupdates of X)
He was first taken to a nearby naval base and then to the Metropolitan Detention Center in downtown Los Angeles, where he remained in custody for three nights. Litt was described as being covered in chemical stimulants, and was denied showers and fresh clothing, and placed on a suicide clock after being emotionally distraught. Meanwhile, his family couldn’t find him and he missed his daughter’s third birthday. He said he was not explained to him about his detention and was released without an apology or accusation.
Now, Rets seeks accountability through the Federal Tort Claims Act, a law that allows citizens to sue the federal government when employees are harmed. Representatives of the Judicial Institute, a nonprofit public interest law firm, filed a request with the relevant federal agencies. He can only proceed to court if the agency fails to act on the claim within six months.
“I’m calling for the federal government not just for what they’ve done to me, but for what they’re doing to others,” Retes said. “I am now a civilian and I am fighting for this country.”
The lawyers representing Retes described the case as an example of how federal agents can strip Americans from basic constitutional protections, even when those individuals are in the military. “George’s argument is an important step in enforcing the constitution and other laws in court,” said the Office of Justice Marie Miller.
Senior lawyer Anya Bidwell said, “Without accountability for these actions, the relationship between citizens and government remains broken. George is doing his part in repairing that relationship, just as he did when he served his country in Iraq.”
The attack at Glass House Farms was part of a wide range of federal enforcement efforts that detained hundreds of people, including undocumented workers, and sparked protests from farm workers and advocacy groups. One worker died after falling from the greenhouse roof during surgery. Federal officials have not disclosed why Retses, a US citizen, was detained or addressed allegations of undue force.
Federal agents fire on vehicles during standoffs in Southern California
The Rets incident comes amid growing scrutiny over immigration enforcement in Southern California. A federal judge recently issued a temporary order banning indiscriminate arrests in seven counties, including Los Angeles.
When he pursued legal claims, Retes launched a GoFundMe campaign to cover legal costs. He said his goal is not only to personal relief, but to ensure that others do not face the same treatment. “This is about holding the government accountable,” he said. “I served this country, and now I want to do it right.”
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