EXCLUSIVE TO FOX: An official from Los Angeles County is reportedly under FBI investigation after posting a social media video urging gang members to fend off U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in their areas.
Cynthia Gonzalez, serving as vice mayor of the city of Cudahy in southeast Los Angeles County, is accused of uploading a video last week encouraging members of the 18th Street and Florencia 13 gangs to guard their neighborhoods against ICE officials.
In an X post on Tuesday night, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security called the comments made by Gonzalez “despicable.”
“She incites notorious gangs — like the dangerous 18th Street gang — to use violence against our courageous ICE law enforcers,” stated the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. “Expressions like these have resulted in over 500 percent rise in attacks on our ICE officers. Secretary Noem has made it clear: Assaulting a federal officer will lead to prosecution to the full extent of the law.”
Sheriff deputies stand among tear gas during a “No Kings” movement protest in the one-square mile area where daily protests were occurring in response to a series of federal immigration raids on June 14, 2025, in Los Angeles, California. (David McNew/Getty Images)
The City of Cudahy also released a statement on Tuesday acknowledging Gonzalez’s social media comments, writing that her statements reflect her personal views and “do not represent the views or official position of the City of Cudahy.”
The 18th Street gang has around 30,000 to 50,000 members, with its main source of income being distribution of cocaine and marijuana. Members also commit assault, auto theft, carjacking and robbery, among other crimes. Florencia 13 is a street gang based out of southern Los Angeles. Its members have recently been accused of crimes including fentanyl trafficking, extortion and murder, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
Earlier this week, LA City Controller Kenneth Mejia announced the recent anti-ICE protests will cost taxpayers $32 million. The protests, touted by many demonstrators as “peaceful,” resulted in nearly a dozen deputies suffering injuries.
Gonzalez and the City of Cudahy did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.
