Carlitos Ricardo Parias recently received a certificate of recognition from Jose Ugarte, chief of staff for Los Angeles City Council member Curren Price. This event took place in Los Angeles in August 2025. Despite this recent honor, Parias faces significant challenges.
Nearly every Saturday, Ulises Parias drives for two hours to visit his father, known as Carlitos Ricardo ‘Richard’ Parias, at the Adelanto Detention Center in California. During these visits, they discuss family, including his 16-year-old sister, and his college classes. Health concerns often arise, as Parias experiences pain in his left arm, headaches, fevers, and blurry vision.
Health Challenges Post-Shooting
More than eight months ago, Parias was shot by federal agents during an immigration enforcement action in Los Angeles. His attorneys allege inadequate medical care following this incident, which resulted in a gunshot wound near his left elbow. They claim he has not received necessary pain medication and physical therapy.
“The last thing he told me was, have a good day at school. Then, like five minutes later, I heard some commotion outside,” Ulises Parias, 20, shared with NPR.
The attorneys are trying to secure his release from detention during his immigration proceedings. However, their request has been denied thus far. They assert that his situation reflects the systemic issues within the detention and judicial system, especially for individuals with no criminal history.
Scrutiny of Federal Enforcement Actions
This year has seen increased scrutiny over federal law enforcement’s use of force, particularly following incidents in Minneapolis involving the shooting deaths of two U.S. citizens. Concerns have also grown regarding the conditions within immigration detention centers, including medical care.
Margaret Hellerstein, Parias’ immigration attorney, highlighted the lack of resources and concern, leading to serious consequences like permanent disability and death.
Encounter with ICE
Parias entered the U.S. illegally in 2002 from Mexico and lived in Los Angeles for two decades. He has two U.S. citizen children and gained a large following on social media, using his TikTok account to share community events. His coverage of immigration arrests caught ICE’s attention amid increased enforcement.
In October, federal officers attempted to detain Parias outside his home. Body camera footage shows officers surrounding his vehicle, leading to a shooting incident when Parias attempted to move his car while blocked by police vehicles. Officers issued commands, and seconds later, fired on Parias.
Medical and Legal Challenges
Parias was treated for his gunshot wound at a hospital before being taken into custody. Despite his medical needs, he faces ongoing pain and limited mobility. DHS documentation shows varying levels of medical treatment over the months.
Parias was charged with assault on a federal officer, without any prior criminal history. These charges were dismissed due to a lack of constitutional access to legal representation, yet the government is appealing this decision.
Detention and Legislation
Parias remains detained under the Laken Riley Act, which facilitates the detention and deportation of undocumented individuals involved in certain offenses. The act expanded ICE’s detention priorities.
Efforts to secure bail have repeatedly failed, with judges citing legislative constraints and arguments of Parias being a flight risk. His lawyer, Hellerstein, continues to challenge this through legal channels.
Limited Support for Detainees
Seeking further support, the family and lawyers reached out to Congressman Sydney Kamlager-Dove, who visited Parias. Kamlager-Dove emphasizes the need for proper medical treatment for Parias.
Amidst these challenges, congressional oversight remains limited, particularly for those without legislative power. Despite these hurdles, advocates push for change through upcoming elections.
Impact on Family
Meanwhile, Parias’ son, Ulises, manages family responsibilities, including maintaining the car involved in the shooting. He juggles these duties with school and legal matters. He hopes for improved circumstances and cherishes moments like watching World Cup games, although it’s bittersweet without his father.
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