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A 79-year-old American citizen from Los Angeles has filed a $50 million claim against the federal government, accusing immigration agents of using violent force during a raid at his business earlier this month.
The man, identified as Rafie Ollah Shouhed, is a naturalized U.S. citizen who owns a car wash in Van Nuys, Los Angeles. He says that on September 9, federal agents raided his workplace and body-slammed him to the ground, even though he tried to show them documents proving his employees were legally authorized to work.
What Happened at the Car Wash
According to Shouhed, when he approached agents outside his car wash, he was suddenly slammed onto the pavement and held down. He claims the officers ignored his attempts to present paperwork and that he suffered serious injuries including broken ribs, pain in his elbow, and a traumatic brain injury.
Shouhed, who also has a heart condition, says he begged the agents to stop but was instead kept in custody for nearly 12 hours before being released without any charges.
What Authorities Say
The Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) are among the agencies named in the claim. Officials argue that Shouhed interfered with the operation and even assaulted or obstructed officers.
His lawyers strongly deny this, saying he never acted aggressively and was simply trying to protect his rights and his business.
The $50 Million Claim
Shouhed’s legal team has filed a federal administrative tort claim seeking $50 million in damages. They argue that the agents violated his civil rights and used excessive force during the raid.
If the government does not respond or settle the case within six months, his lawyers plan to take the matter to federal court.
Why This Matters
This case has sparked national attention because it involves a U.S. citizen alleging mistreatment by immigration agents. It raises larger questions about the use of force during immigration raids and how federal agencies handle encounters with American citizens.
Civil rights advocates are also watching closely, saying this incident highlights the need for greater oversight of enforcement operations.
What Happens Next
- The government must decide how to respond to Shouhed’s claim.
- If unresolved, the case could proceed to federal court, where it may set an important precedent.
- Surveillance footage and other evidence may play a key role in determining what actually happened.
For now, Shouhed says his priority is seeking justice and making sure no other citizen goes through a similar experience.
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