Soledad businesses fear lower customer turnout after ICE sighting

SOLEDAD, Calif. (KION-TV) -- Local restaurants and community members are under some fear after a confirmed ice detention in Soledad on Tuesday. “Yesterday, we had way fewer clients come in. You can see empty tables. Jesus Roberto, a chef at a local Mexican restaurant, says they have seen a drop from the usual 85 daily orders to roughly five or six a day since the ice report. 

Just down the street at Delicias Bakery, Maria sees the same lack of customers. She says that their bakery is usually full in the mornings, but this week, the streets have seemed empty.    

Authorities confirming the incident that occurred earlier this week behind the CVS y Más was a targeted ICE detention. Despite them asking the community to remain calm, people here are still living in fear.

“And that fear is valid,” said Yareli Martinez, a local activist. “I want community to understand it is valid. But we shouldn't be living in fear.” 

She urges people who have the ability to volunteer and screen potential sightings to do this before posting on social media. 

“Make sure you're not posting on social media things that are not valid, that are not verified, because you're just putting more fear out in the community,” she adds.

Chef Roberto says that fear is one he has to live with constantly. “La necesidad también nos está haciendo como arriesgarnos un poquito,” said Roberto. Despite his pending legal status, Roberto opted to speak on camera. He says it's a risk he's willing to take, hoping to share his story and the daily efforts, which, he adds, is a necessity to provide for his family. 

In response to concerns, Monterey County is expanding its resources in English, Spanish, and Indigenous languages in its online "Know Your Rights" section.

The solidarity network also provides resources such as legal support to try to bring peace of mind to the community.