ICE Arrests Two Individuals in Newberg
NEWBERG, Ore. — Two Newberg residents were detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers on November 2, marking the latest in a series of immigration-related arrests across Yamhill County.
According to a statement from Unidos Bridging Community, a Latino advocacy organization based in McMinnville, the individuals were taken into custody during routine daily activities — one while shopping at a neighborhood grocery store and another while visiting a small downtown business.
“These were not targeted raids,” Unidos said in its release. “Both individuals were participating in everyday local commerce when they were detained.”
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The advocacy group reported that these arrests bring the total number of detentions in Yamhill County to nine since June 2025, highlighting growing concern within the region’s Latino community.
Pattern of Detentions Since June
Unidos officials said the wave of arrests began earlier this year with the detention of Moises Sotelo, a longtime Newberg resident and small business owner. Sotelo, who founded a vineyard services company in 2024, was arrested by ICE officers on June 12 as he was leaving his home for work. He was later deported to Mexico.
In addition to the recent Newberg arrests, Unidos documented multiple detentions across the county: three Latino individuals taken into custody after being released from the Yamhill County Jail in McMinnville, one arrested while shopping at a small business, and another detained near a job site in Dayton’s agricultural industry.
Economic and Community Impact
Unidos emphasized that these arrests have ripple effects far beyond the individuals and families directly affected. The organization warned that local businesses, schools, and civic institutions are suffering as fear and uncertainty spread through the community.
“Every time a worker or customer is detained, our local economy takes a hit,” said Miriam Vargas Corona, executive director of Unidos. “These actions don’t just affect families — they disrupt small business operations, reduce spending, and shake the stability of our local workforce.”
Local schools, churches, and healthcare providers have also reported challenges in maintaining trust and participation among immigrant families, Unidos noted.
Advocacy Group Urges Diligence and Awareness
In its statement, Unidos urged residents and business owners to remain informed and prepared in the event of future enforcement actions. The group offered several key recommendations:
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Know your rights: Individuals do not have to open the door to law enforcement without a warrant signed by a judge.
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Be prepared: Keep your immigration attorney’s contact information or the Immigration Impact Hotline (503-272-1809) readily accessible.
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Report enforcement activity: Call hotlines immediately to document incidents and connect with support resources.
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Do not interfere: For safety reasons, witnesses should not confront ICE agents but instead focus on observing, documenting, and reporting the situation.
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Share the impact: Inform local economic development groups and elected officials about how enforcement actions affect local businesses and community stability.
Support and Reporting Hotlines
To help community members navigate these incidents, Unidos operates the Immigration Impact Support Hotline (503-272-1809) in partnership with the Equity Corps of Oregon, which provides legal and advocacy services to affected families.
When reporting ICE activity, Unidos encourages callers to use the “CLEAR” method:
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Count: Number of vehicles and officers present
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Location: Exact address or area where activity occurred
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Equipment: Description of uniforms, gear, and vehicles
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Activity: Actions taken by officers and number of people detained
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Report: Time and date of the incident
In addition, the Portland Immigrant Rights Coalition operates a statewide hotline at 888-622-1510 for reporting and assistance.
Unidos Calls for Unity and Economic Stability
In its conclusion, Unidos reaffirmed its mission to protect both the dignity and the economic wellbeing of Yamhill County residents.
“When all residents can work, shop, learn, and contribute without fear, our small businesses, schools, and entire community prosper,” the organization said.
The group continues to advocate for transparency in immigration enforcement practices and for policies that strengthen community trust while protecting the rights of all residents.
