Cudahy Vice Mayor Jessica Gonzalez is facing intense backlash after a controversial video surfaced in which she calls on local gang members to stand up against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. The alarming footage, which has since been removed, urges rival gangs to reclaim the streets of Cudahy, heightening tensions in a city already grappling with violence.

In the video, Gonzalez declares, “Your hood is being invaded,” directly addressing gang leaders and encouraging them to resist federal enforcement. The Department of Homeland Security has condemned her remarks, linking them to a staggering 500% increase in assaults on ICE officers. The agency has vowed to protect its agents and prosecute any attacks stemming from her provocative call to action.

The city of Cudahy quickly distanced itself from Gonzalez’s statements, asserting that they do not reflect the official position of the local government. Residents are expressing outrage, with many describing the Vice Mayor’s rhetoric as reckless and incendiary. “She is talking like insane,” said one local, who fears that her words could exacerbate existing gang tensions.

Gonzalez, who has previously aligned herself with other local leaders to oppose immigration enforcement, has not responded to requests for comment. As the fallout continues, the FBI has been approached for confirmation of any investigations related to the video, but they have not provided any details.

This developing story raises urgent questions about the safety of the community and the potential ramifications of Gonzalez’s call for gang resistance against federal authorities. As tensions mount, the city watches closely to see how this controversy unfolds.