3 Cited At Coronavirus 'Noise' Protest Outside ICE Facility

SAN DIEGO, CA — The San Diego County Sheriff's Department says deputies cited three people for their involvement in a coronavirus-related "noise protest" Saturday outside Otay Mesa Detention Center, a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement —ICE — facility in southernmost San Diego near the United States-Mexico border.

Deputies from the Imperial Beach Sheriff's Station responded at noon Saturday to find around 30 cars parked in front of the ICE facility, 7488 Calzada De La Fuente, with the people inside the cars honking their horns, shouting and recording video, according to San Diego County sheriff's Sgt. Stan Bracy.

"The people contacted told deputies this was a noise protest for those infected with the coronavirus inside the federal facility," Bracy said.

At least six detainees and five employees of the federal facility run by a government contractor have tested positive for COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus, according to recent news reports.

California Highway Patrol officers also responded to the protest that lasted about 15 minutes, according to the sheriff's office.

Three of the protesters were ultimately cited for unlawful use of horn, having no proof of insurance, and violating the public health stay-at-home order, Bracy said.

"The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department respects the public’s right to free speech and to peacefully protest," Bracy said. "However, with a global pandemic we urge you to follow the Governor’s Executive and County Public health orders to protect the most vulnerable and save lives. At this most critical time, the importance of staying home other than for essential needs is necessary for everyone’s safety."