On October 19, 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detained 105 individuals identified as illegal aliens during a coordinated operation at La Catedral Arena in Wilder, Idaho. This action, conducted in conjunction with the FBI, targeted a suspected criminal network involved in illegal gambling and animal fighting. The FBI also arrested four additional individuals in connection with these alleged operations, which authorities claim have ties to cartels.
Story Highlights
- ICE detained 105 individuals in Wilder, Idaho, on October 19, 2025, during a joint operation with the FBI.
- The FBI arrested four individuals linked to illegal gambling and animal fighting, with alleged cartel connections.
- The operation reflects a policy change under the Trump administration that no longer recognizes “sensitive locations” restrictions for enforcement actions.
- Idaho Governor Brad Little expressed support for the federal operation, citing successful federal-state cooperation.
The operation at La Catedral Arena, a venue known for horse racing events, is described by federal authorities as one of Idaho’s largest immigration enforcement actions. Investigators characterized the network as engaging in illegal gambling, animal fighting, and immigration violations. The FBI’s arrests included arena owner Ivan Tellez, who is alleged to have cartel connections.
ICE Arrests 100 Illegal Aliens in Idaho at Horse Race Eventhttps://t.co/g7GeQCEhV5
— Alfred E (@ANeuman5691) October 22, 2025
This enforcement action aligns with the Trump administration’s stated commitment to immigration law enforcement and the disruption of criminal networks. A policy change has eliminated “sensitive locations” restrictions, allowing ICE to conduct operations in areas previously considered off-limits, such as schools and churches. The Department of Homeland Security stated that these operations focus on criminal enterprises that exploit illegal immigration for profit and impact public safety.
Idaho Governor Brad Little supported the federal operation, emphasizing cooperation between state and federal authorities under an existing agreement to address criminal activity involving illegal aliens. The governor’s office confirmed that no children remained in ICE custody. The operation followed a months-long FBI investigation that utilized helicopters and advanced surveillance technology. La Catedral Arena had reportedly drawn scrutiny for alleged illegal betting activities linked to organized criminal networks.
Federal law enforcement officials assert that such operations are necessary to dismantle criminal enterprises involved in multiple illegal activities, including drug trafficking, illegal gambling, and animal abuse. They argue that addressing immigration violations in conjunction with organized criminal activity is crucial for protecting citizens and legal residents.
All 105 individuals detained by ICE are currently in federal custody awaiting immigration proceedings. The four individuals arrested by the FBI face criminal charges related to illegal gambling and animal fighting. The FBI’s investigation is ongoing. Federal authorities maintain that the operation adhered to proper legal procedures and executed lawfully obtained warrants.
Watch the report: ICE raids horse arena in Idaho
Sources:
- Over 100 People Detained in Federal Raid at Idaho Horse Track, ICE Says
- ICE Arrests 105 People in Southwest Idaho Raid, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Says
