ICE Arrests Over 80 Undocumented Immigrants in Delta Downs Raid

Key Takeaways

• On June 17, 2025, ICE arrested 84 undocumented immigrants at Delta Downs Racetrack in Louisiana.
• Two detainees had prior criminal records; most faced administrative immigration violations.
• The raid involved multiple agencies and highlighted rising worksite enforcement in Louisiana.

On Monday, June 17, 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) led a major operation at the Delta Downs Racetrack, Hotel and Casino in Vinton, Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana. Working with several federal and state agencies, ICE arrested 84 people they identified as undocumented immigrants. This large-scale raid, announced by ICE the following day, has quickly become a major topic of discussion among local residents, the horse racing industry, immigrant rights groups, and national policymakers.

What Happened at Delta Downs?

The operation took place early Monday morning. ICE agents, along with the U.S. Border Patrol, FBI, Louisiana State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, entered the racetrack’s stables. According to ICE, they acted on intelligence that suggested unauthorized workers were employed in these areas. The 84 individuals arrested were processed for administrative immigration violations and then transported to the Lake Charles Border Patrol Station for further action.

ICE officials stated that the raid was part of a broader effort to disrupt illegal employment networks. Steven Stavinoha, Director of Field Operations for U.S. Customs and Border Protection in New Orleans, explained that these networks can threaten the fairness of the labor system and create opportunities for worker exploitation. The operation at Delta Downs is one of the largest immigration enforcement actions in Louisiana in recent years.

Who Was Arrested and Why?

Of the 84 people arrested, at least two had prior criminal records. ICE highlighted these cases, noting charges such as driving under the influence (DUI), cocaine possession, illegal re-entry after deportation, aggravated battery, and sexual battery. However, the vast majority of those detained were simply accused of being in the United States 🇺🇸 without legal status.

Those arrested now face administrative immigration proceedings. This means they may be held in detention, have the right to a bond hearing, and could be ordered removed (deported) from the country. The process can be complicated and stressful, especially for people who may not have immediate access to legal help.

How Did the Raid Unfold?

The raid was carefully planned. ICE and its partner agencies conducted a site visit before the operation to confirm the presence of unauthorized workers. On the day of the raid, agents entered the stables and began checking identification and work authorization documents. Those who could not show legal permission to work or stay in the United States 🇺🇸 were detained.

After the arrests, detainees were taken to the Lake Charles Border Patrol Station. ICE processed each person for administrative immigration violations. Those with criminal records were separated and their cases highlighted in ICE’s public statements.

Stakeholder Reactions: Industry, Employers, and Advocacy Groups

Boyd Gaming Corporation

Boyd Gaming Corporation, which owns Delta Downs, responded quickly. Spokesperson David Strow said the company “complies fully” with federal labor laws and that “no Delta Downs team members were involved.” He also promised that Boyd Gaming would cooperate fully with law enforcement.

Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA)

The HBPA, which represents horse owners and trainers, issued guidance to its members. CEO Eric Hamelback reminded horsemen that ICE needs a judicially-approved warrant to enter areas under HBPA oversight, such as certain stables. He encouraged workers to know their legal rights and to seek legal help if detained.

Immigrant Rights Groups

Rachel Taber of Unión Migrante, a Louisiana-based immigrant rights group, criticized the raid. She argued that such actions harm both families and the local economy, which relies heavily on immigrant labor. Taber said, “These raids don’t just hurt the people arrested—they hurt our entire community and the industries that depend on their work.”

Policy Context: Why Now?

The timing of the Delta Downs raid is especially important. Just weeks earlier, the Trump administration issued a directive advising ICE to pause arrests at agricultural sites, restaurants, and hotels. The goal was to avoid harming industries that depend on immigrant labor. However, Stephen Miller, White House deputy chief of staff and a key architect of immigration policy, has pushed for much tougher enforcement. He wants ICE to increase arrests to 3,000 per day, compared to about 650 per day in the first five months of President Trump’s second term.

This tension between economic concerns and strict enforcement has created confusion. While some sectors were told they would be spared from raids, the horse racing industry was not specifically mentioned. The Delta Downs operation shows that ICE is still willing to take aggressive action in industries that have not been officially exempted.

Recent Enforcement Trends in Louisiana

The Delta Downs raid is not an isolated event. In the past month alone, ICE has carried out several other worksite enforcement actions in Louisiana:

• May 27, 2025: 15 arrests at a New Orleans flood-reduction project
• June 11, 2025: 10 arrests at massage parlors in Baton Rouge

These actions are part of a broader trend toward increased worksite enforcement since January 2025, when President Trump renewed his focus on immigration enforcement. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the frequency and scale of such raids have grown, especially in industries where immigrant labor is common.

What Happens to Those Arrested?

After being detained, undocumented immigrants face a series of legal steps:

1. Processing: ICE records personal information and checks for criminal history.
2. Detention: Some may be held in detention centers, while others could be released on bond.
3. Bond Hearings: Detainees can request a bond hearing to argue for their release while their case is pending.
4. Removal Proceedings: Immigration judges decide whether the person can stay in the United States 🇺🇸 or must be deported.

The Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association has circulated legal rights guidance, reminding workers that ICE must have a valid, court-approved warrant to enter certain areas. They also encourage anyone detained to seek legal representation and to ask for a bond hearing as soon as possible.

For more information on immigration enforcement and your rights, you can visit the official ICE website.

Impact on the Horse Racing Industry

The horse racing industry depends heavily on immigrant workers, especially in roles such as grooms, stable hands, and maintenance staff. The Delta Downs raid has alarmed many in the industry. Immigration attorney Will Velie reported a surge in calls from racetracks across the country, with many operators worried about similar raids at their facilities.

Industry leaders are now urging racetrack owners and managers to review their hiring practices and to make sure all workers have proper documentation. They are also advising workers to carry proof of legal status and to know their rights if approached by ICE.

Economic and Community Effects

Immigrant rights groups argue that raids like the one at Delta Downs have far-reaching effects. When large numbers of workers are removed from a single workplace, it can disrupt business operations and hurt the local economy. In places like Vinton, Louisiana, where the racetrack is a major employer, the loss of so many workers at once can slow down operations and even threaten the future of the business.

Rachel Taber of Unión Migrante pointed out that many local businesses rely on immigrant labor, not just the racetrack. She said, “When ICE raids a workplace, it sends shockwaves through the whole community. Families are separated, businesses struggle, and everyone feels less safe.”

Legal Rights and Protections

The HBPA and legal experts stress that both employers and workers need to understand their rights during ICE enforcement actions. Here are some key points:

• Warrants: ICE must have a judicially-approved warrant to enter certain private areas, such as stables managed by the HBPA.
• Right to Remain Silent: Workers have the right to remain silent and to ask for a lawyer.
• Bond Hearings: Detainees can request a bond hearing to seek release while their case is pending.
• Legal Representation: It is important for detainees to seek legal help as soon as possible.

For official information on immigration forms and legal rights, you can visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) forms page.

Policy Uncertainty and Future Outlook

The Delta Downs raid highlights ongoing uncertainty in U.S. immigration policy. While some White House officials have called for a pause in certain types of enforcement, others are pushing for more aggressive action. This has left employers, workers, and advocacy groups unsure about what to expect next.

Industry groups like the HBPA are likely to step up their legal preparedness, offering more training and resources to members. Immigrant rights organizations will continue to push for policy changes and better protections for workers. Meanwhile, ICE is under pressure from senior administration officials to increase the number of daily arrests, which could mean more large-scale raids in the near future.

Summary Table: Key Facts of Delta Downs ICE Raid

Practical Guidance for Employers and Workers

If you are an employer in an industry that relies on immigrant labor, it is important to:

• Review Hiring Practices: Make sure all workers have proper documentation.
• Know Your Rights: Understand when ICE can and cannot enter your property.
• Prepare for Audits: Keep employment records up to date and accessible.
• Educate Staff: Train managers and workers on what to do if ICE arrives.

For workers, especially those who may be undocumented immigrants:

• Carry Documentation: Always have proof of legal status if you have it.
• Know Your Rights: You have the right to remain silent and to ask for a lawyer.
• Seek Legal Help: Contact an immigration attorney or advocacy group if you are detained.
• Stay Informed: Follow updates from trusted organizations and official sources.

Official Resources and Contacts

• ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement): ICE Official Website
• Boyd Gaming Corporation: Contact their corporate communications office for statements about Delta Downs.
• Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA): Reach out to the national office or local affiliates for legal rights guidance.
• Unión Migrante: For immigrant rights resources and support, contact their Louisiana office.

Conclusion: A Turning Point for Worksite Enforcement

The Delta Downs raid is a clear sign that ICE is stepping up worksite enforcement, even in industries that have not been specifically targeted in recent policy changes. With 84 undocumented immigrants arrested in a single operation, the impact on the local economy, the horse racing industry, and immigrant families is significant.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, the event underscores the ongoing tension between federal immigration policy, economic needs, and the rights of workers and employers. With pressure mounting for even more enforcement, both employers and workers should stay informed, know their rights, and be prepared for further changes in the months ahead.

For the latest official information on immigration enforcement and your rights, visit the ICE website. If you or someone you know is affected by these actions, seek legal advice and support from trusted organizations as soon as possible.

Learn Today

ICE → U.S. agency enforcing immigration laws and conducting investigations on unauthorized immigrants.
Administrative immigration violations → Legal infractions related to immigration status, processed through immigration courts.
Detention → Temporary custody while immigration cases are reviewed or proceedings continue.
Bond hearing → Legal proceeding where detainees can request release before their immigration case concludes.
Worksite enforcement → ICE operations targeting workplaces employing unauthorized immigrants to disrupt illegal labor.

This Article in a Nutshell

ICE led a massive raid at Delta Downs racetrack on June 17, 2025, arresting 84 undocumented immigrants. Multiple agencies collaborated to target unauthorized workers in stables, raising concerns in the horse racing industry and immigrant rights groups about economic and legal consequences.
— By VisaVerge.com