Drug Bust In West Hollywood Confused For ICE RAID

WEST HOLLYWOOD—On Friday night, The Abbey in the Rainbow District of West Hollywood was raided by members of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department who were conducting a drug bust and arrested people. However, the deputies were confused for being Federal Agents in the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency. This was because the sheriff’s deputies were driving unmarked vehicles. In addition, the people in The Abbey had heard rumors about ICE agents conducting raids. On Sunday, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department confirmed that the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency did not participate in the arrests. Furthermore, Captain Fanny Lapkin of the West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station stated that the drug raid was done in response to reports her station received about narcotic sales, pickpocketing, and other criminal activity that was occurring at establishments in the area. Her station also received complaints about criminal activity by street vendors selling items without a permit. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department made 13 arrests. Those who were arrested face charges that include possession of controlled substances and possession of controlled substances for sale or transportation.   By Daniel Diquinzio