ICE Detained Three Employees in Tallahassee
Three staff members were taken into custody at a local eatery on September 25, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Immigration
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On September 25, 2026, Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents detained three employees at Chile and Chile's Taqueria on West Tennessee Street. The restaurant subsequently suspended operations at that location indefinitely following the incident.
Why it matters
The detentions sparked community pushback and a rally on October 7, 2026, as activists called for an end to the local 287(g) agreement between Leon County authorities and federal immigration officials. This agreement authorizes local law enforcement to assist in federal immigration enforcement activities.
Federal immigration agents detained 3 employees during an operation at a Tallahassee food truck. The detained individuals remain in custody while they await scheduled bond hearings.
The players
Immigration and Customs Enforcement
This federal agency is responsible for enforcing immigration laws and managing detention operations.
Leon County Sheriff's Office
This local law enforcement agency maintains a 287(g) agreement that allows deputies to facilitate federal immigration enforcement.
Tallahassee Police Department
This local agency operates within Tallahassee and maintains a 287(g) agreement concerning immigration enforcement.
The details
Surveillance footage captured employees fleeing trailers as federal officers arrived on the scene. Following the event, organizers launched a GoFundMe campaign to support the families of the detained workers.
Timeline
September 25, 2026: ICE agents detained three employees at the West Tennessee Street food truck.
October 7, 2026: Activists held a rally at the restaurant to protest the detentions and local 287(g) enforcement policies.
Political Context
Opponents of the 287(g) immigration enforcement agreement argue that local involvement in federal detentions erodes community trust and public safety. Supporters maintain that these partnerships are essential for enhancing cooperation between local and federal authorities.
The indefinite closure of the West Tennessee Street location impacts local dining options and employment at the site. Residents may continue to see protest activity as activists seek to challenge the city's current federal cooperation agreements.
The takeaway
Communities continue to debate the role of local law enforcement in federal immigration processes through public demonstrations and fundraising. Affected businesses and residents face uncertainty as these enforcement policies remain a subject of local political tension.
Further reading
For more background on local policies, see the Immigration section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The FAMUAN.
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