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TULARE, CALIFORNIA — Fear and confusion are spreading across Tulare’s immigrant communities as false alerts about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity continue to circulate, leading to widespread anxiety, business closures, and empty public spaces.
During the June 17 Tulare City Council meeting, Councilmember Jose Sigala brought the issue to the forefront, warning that unfounded ICE sightings are creating panic and undermining public safety.
“I go to particular places here in Tulare and they’re closed. Nobody shopping. Nobody going out,” Sigala told fellow council members. “People are afraid, and I think it’s awful that our community is living in fear.”
According to Sigala, the city has been inundated with unverified alerts on social media and through text messages that falsely claim ICE agents are active on streets like Mooney Boulevard, Los Angeles Street, and other known corridors. Tulare police have confirmed these reports are not accurate.
“Our department has made it very clear that they will not participate in any civil immigration enforcement,” Sigala said. “There’s a difference between criminal warrants and civil actions. We need people to feel safe calling the police when they need help.”
Sigala emphasized that while he supports the removal of individuals who commit crimes, the way ICE operations are being discussed online is creating fear for all immigrants, regardless of their legal status.
“What’s happening now is that everyone is subject to being deported in the eyes of the community,” he said. “Even people who haven’t done anything wrong are afraid to leave their homes or go to work.”
This chilling effect, he added, could harm not just families, but also local businesses and public services. When people are too afraid to report crimes, seek medical help, or interact with police, the entire community suffers.
Sigala also encouraged the council and city leadership to strengthen their communication with residents and reaffirm Tulare’s commitment to community trust. He asked that city officials continue outreach and make it clear that local police are not involved in immigration enforcement actions.
No formal action was taken at the meeting, but Sigala’s comments marked a clear call for calm, facts, and compassion.
What do you think? Should Tulare do more to ease fears in immigrant neighborhoods?
Francisco Ramirez is the founder of Kings Network News and creator of Kings Network Business, a platform that blends business networking, community support, and social media to uplift local entrepreneurs.
As a former Mayor of Hanford, California, he launched the Winter Wonderland event and brings over 20 years of business consulting experience. He is also a motivational speaker, life coach, strategist, author, podcaster, and skilled web and graphic designer.
He created The Invisible Kid: Courage to Succeed, a seminar on self-esteem and anti-bullying that has inspired youth across the region. Through media and consulting, Francisco empowers others to lead, grow, and make an impact.
