SOUTHINGTON, Conn. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents arrested four Guatemalan nationals on June 9 during a random worksite enforcement operation at D-Hand Car Wash in Southington.
The operation was conducted by ICE’s Homeland Security Investigations Hartford office in coordination with Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations. The four individuals were administratively arrested for being in the United States without legal authorization.
“Ensuring compliance with federal employment laws is crucial to maintaining a fair and competitive business environment,” said HSI New England Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol. “Businesses, such as D-Hand, that employ unauthorized workers not only undermine the integrity of our immigration system but also gain an unfair advantage over law-abiding companies.”
ICE officials stated that such worksite enforcement efforts aim to ensure businesses follow federal employment eligibility laws, which prohibit the hiring of individuals not authorized to work in the U.S.
ICE emphasizes business compliance
ICE’s worksite enforcement programs are designed to investigate both employers and employees. During these operations, any noncitizen found violating U.S. immigration laws may face arrest, detention, and removal proceedings.
ICE confirmed that the individuals arrested during the Southington operation are now in administrative detention pending further immigration proceedings. The agency has not announced any charges against the D-Hand Car Wash at this time.
“HSI is committed to identifying and addressing these violations to protect both the legal workforce and honest businesses,” Krol said.
The investigation remains ongoing as federal agents review employment practices at the business.
