Escondido residents demand city stop ICE from using local shooting range

Residents of Escondido took to the streets on Wednesday to pressure city leaders into reversing a deal that permits federal immigration agents to use a local shooting range for firearms training. The gathering on Ash Street and East Valley Parkway was driven by frustration over what attendees described as a growing immigration enforcement footprint in the community.

The specific point of contention is a contract between the city and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Escondido police confirmed the agreement was originally signed in 2024 and renewed earlier this year. The terms allow ICE to utilize the city’s range for a fee of approximately $67,500. Protesters holding signs and chanting in the crowd called for the city to terminate this arrangement.

Pam Albergo, who organized the event, argued that the police department should not let the federal government use municipal property for training. She stated that the current administration’s policies are destructive to the community, particularly to those who are most vulnerable. "The policies of the current administration are very destructive to all of us in our community, but mostly the most vulnerable," Albergo said.

Lisa Richards, another attendee, joined the rally due to her concern over increased enforcement activities in the area. She urged neighbors to participate in the political process to effect change. "I just want people to stand up for for what you believe in show show up, show up and vote it's all I can say," Richards said.

City Council Member Consuelo Martinez attended the rally to support the call for a reduced ICE presence. She told the crowd that local leaders must listen to residents and acknowledge the economic and social effects of the enforcement climate. Martinez noted that construction projects are slowing down due to a shortage of workers and that families are feeling the strain. "You just have to listen to your community. You just have to open your eyes to see that there is an impact in this community construction is slow right now. There's no workers, right? And children are suffering, families are suffering, and it's not right," Martinez said.

The Department of Homeland Security did not respond to requests for comment regarding the protest. In previous interactions, ICE officials have declined to specify where their officers train. They have also noted that their agents face death threats and a rise in assaults. The city has not yet announced a scheduled date to vote on or renegotiate the training contract.