SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Carlos Ivan Mendoza Hernandez, a dual citizen of El Salvador and Mexico, was ordered to remain in custody by a judge due to concerns he may be a flight risk. He is facing charges stemming from an incident on April 7 when he allegedly attempted to strike an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer with his vehicle, prompting officers to fire at him during an enforcement stop in Patterson, California, roughly 75 miles southeast of San Francisco. Mendoza, 36, claims he panicked and did not mean to run anyone over. His attorney, Patrick Kolasinski, maintains that Mendoza has never been part of a gang and was acquitted of murder charges in El Salvador. However, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) asserts that Mendoza was flagged as a gang member wanted for questioning in a murder case. Shots were fired by ICE officers in defense as Mendoza tried to escape. Subsequently, he suffered multiple gunshot wounds and has undergone several surgeries. The shooting incident is part of continued scrutiny surrounding ICE's aggressive operations during the Trump administration, where several shootings' circumstances have raised questions, often contradicted by video evidence. Mendoza's next court appearance is slated for early May.
Ongoing Legal Battle After Shooting During ICE Arrest in California
Mendoza Hernandez, who has undergone multiple surgeries after being shot by ICE officers, remains in custody as legal proceedings continue. His defense disputes claims that he is a gang member and contradicts the narrative from federal officials.
Carlos Ivan Mendoza Hernandez, shot during an ICE arrest in California, remains detained with concerns of flight risk. His lawyers argue he did not intend to harm anyone during an enforcement stop, while federal authorities cite his alleged gang connections. Mendoza's next court hearing is expected in May.




















