Nurse Arrested While Filming Immigration Raid — and the Video Is Going Viral
Update 8/10/2025
Amanda Trebach, a registered nurse who was recently detained in Los Angeles while monitoring immigration enforcement activities, was released yesterday evening without facing criminal charges. Her release followed advocacy efforts by nurse members, community supporters, and organizations such as Unión del Barrio. The National Nurses United union acknowledged the widespread support and collaboration that contributed to Trebach’s return home. Trebach had been detained during a demonstration as part of her volunteer work documenting federal enforcement actions with the Harbor Area Peace Patrol. Nursing and community organizations had publicly called for her release and highlighted the significance of advocacy related to immigrant and migrant community welfare. As of August 10, 2025, Trebach is home, and the incident continues to prompt discussions about the roles and responsibilities of healthcare professionals in community advocacy and monitoring public law enforcement activities.
Amanda Trebach, an ICU nurse and U.S. citizen, was taken into federal custody outside the Terminal Island staging area in San Pedro, Los Angeles, on August 8, 2025 according to reports. Trebach was present with community advocacy group Unión del Barrio, documenting immigration enforcement activities. According to witnesses and advocacy organizations, there has been no evidence of Trebach provoking or assaulting federal agents prior to her arrest. The incident was captured on video and circulated widely, prompting public reaction and advocacy efforts.
Community and Nursing Response
Unión del Barrio, whose mission includes monitoring immigration activity and advocating for immigrant rights, asserts that Trebach’s actions were limited to observation and documentation, which are protected activities. Multiple nursing organizations, including National Nurses United and California Nurses Association, have issued official statements condemning Trebach’s detention and calling for her release. These groups emphasize that nurses frequently participate in community advocacy because social factors such as immigration status impact public health.
Protests and Legal Context
Protests demanding Trebach’s release began the day of her detention and continued through the weekend in downtown Los Angeles, where demonstrators gathered near the federal detention center. Law enforcement declared an unlawful assembly after items were reportedly thrown at police vehicles and some protestors surrounded officers. Sixteen individuals, including one minor, were cited and released. Legal and civil liberties groups have highlighted Trebach’s case in the context of broader debates over law enforcement actions and the protection of peaceful advocacy.
Professional Advocacy and Risks
Healthcare professionals have pointed out that community engagement, including monitoring public law enforcement activities, is often an extension of their role in addressing broader social determinants of health. Organizations such as the American Nurses Association have previously noted that advocacy does not end at the bedside but includes wider engagement with social issues affecting patient populations. Trebach’s situation has led to discussions within the nursing profession about possible risks when participating in or documenting public enforcement actions and how best to balance professional duties with personal civil liberties.
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