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The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has responded strongly to a report from a liberal California media outlet regarding an incident involving a U.S. citizen and his young child during an immigration enforcement operation. According to the Los Angeles Times, Border Patrol agents detained 32-year-old Dennis Quinonez at a Home Depot in Cypress Park while his 1-year-old daughter was in the backseat of his vehicle.
The article claimed that two agents entered Quinonez’s car, armed and wearing masks, and drove off with the child, sparking protests from onlookers. A DHS spokesperson clarified that Quinonez allegedly exited his vehicle wielding a hammer and throwing rocks at law enforcement while the child was present.
Details of the Incident
The report further revealed that Quinonez was arrested for assault. During the arrest, authorities discovered a loaded pistol in his car, which had been reported stolen from New York. Additionally, Quinonez had an outstanding warrant for property damage and was charged with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition due to a prior domestic violence conviction.
Despite these circumstances, an immigration activist condemned the agents’ actions, stating that the presence of armed individuals put the toddler in "extreme danger." The activist expressed concern over the aggressive approach taken by law enforcement towards a U.S. citizen and his child during what was described as a routine errand to Home Depot.
As the situation unfolded, the agents decided to transport Quinonez and his daughter separately to another location, where they confirmed the handgun was loaded with five rounds of ammunition.
Community Reaction
In response to the incident, a reporter from the LA Times shared updates on social media, noting that the child had been reunited with her family. Maria Avalos, the child’s grandmother, voiced her distress, questioning the agents’ decision to drive off with her granddaughter and expressing concerns about the safety of the child.
DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin defended the actions of law enforcement, pointing out that Quinonez’s behavior—leaving his child unattended and attacking officers—justified their decision to ensure the child’s safety until a guardian could be located.
A spokesperson for the LA Times reaffirmed their commitment to the accuracy of the report, stating that all relevant information provided by DHS was included in their coverage.
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