Word spread quickly that Los Angeles TikTok creator Carlitos Ricardo Parias had been shot and arrested by federal agents. Within hours, rumors of new ICE raids were circulating on social media, with WeHo a bit on edge after this weekend’s drug bust thought to be an ICE raid at The Abbey.
Parias, who posts under the name Richard LA, has been documenting immigration enforcement and neighborhood life around the city. His livestreams of ICE operations and street protests made him a recognizable voice for many immigrant families and activists.
Federal officials say agents moved in Tuesday morning to serve an “administrative” arrest warrant. When they blocked in Parias’ car, they claim he tried to drive forward and back, striking other vehicles. Agents fired, hitting him in the elbow. A ricochet injured another officer.
Parias, 44, was hospitalized and later charged with assault on a federal officer. If convicted, he could face up to eight years in prison. Friends have confirmed he is in stable condition, handcuffed to his bed and is being guarded by two ICE agents. It’s been reported his lawyer was having difficulty gaining access to Richard. Lots of supporters have been gathering outside the hospital.
Community leaders describe him as more than a content creator. Los Angeles Councilmember Curren Price’s office recently recognized Parias for his influence and for what they called his “raw and unfiltered view of daily life” that has earned a strong local following.
In a statement, Price’s office said Parias “has become a steady voice in South Central, telling stories that don’t always make the evening news and giving visibility to people who rarely get it.”
Even as Price’s office spoke of his impact, federal officials offered a different account. Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli said in a statement that “vehicles are deadly weapons” and warned that anyone who uses one against federal agents “risks arrest, imprisonment, and life-threatening injuries.”
As details of the case unfolded, social media once again lit up with speculation about possible immigration sweeps. None of it was confirmed, but the anxiety felt familiar in West Hollywood, where several incidents this year sparked similar panic.
Oh look, Confederate Democrats pushing rebellion and anarchy!
Brawndo is the thirst mutilator. Was this guy a member of the press? Did he have training as a reporter? What exactly is a TikTok reporter? It’s got electrolytes!?