Just about every Saturday, Ulises Parias drives two hours to visit his father, Carlitos Ricardo "Richard" Parias, at the Adelanto Detention Center in California. They talk on the phone regularly. Parias tells his father about his 16-year-old sister and other family matters, but the conversations are often strained by his father's pain from a shooting by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.
Richard Parias was shot by ICE agents during an incident that left him with lasting physical pain. The case has drawn attention to gaps in oversight of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees ICE. Critics argue that internal review processes are insufficient and that incidents like this highlight the need for independent investigations.
According to reports, the shooting occurred during an enforcement action, though specific details remain disputed. Parias' family has called for a transparent investigation and accountability. DHS has stated that it follows protocols, but advocates say the system fails to address excessive force complaints.
The Adelanto Detention Center, where Parias is held, has been the subject of previous complaints about medical care and conditions. His son Ulises continues to advocate for his father's release and proper medical treatment, while also raising broader concerns about ICE's use of force.
