5 People Were Arrested by ICE at the Panchos Tacos Restaurant
Mount Vernon, Ohio — It has been confirmed that five individuals were arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) operation at Panchos Tacos, a popular restaurant in Mount Vernon. The raid took place on October 9, according to DHS spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin.
Authorities revealed that three of the individuals had previously been deported and had re-entered the United States illegally. McLaughlin added that one bystander attempted to obstruct officers, and another resisted arrest, resulting in two ICE agents sustaining minor injuries, including bruises and lacerations.
Following the incident, Panchos Tacos temporarily closed its doors, with an automated message stating the restaurant would remain closed “until further notice.” Building owner Tim Carper said he met with the restaurant’s owners on October 15 to discuss reopening plans, adding, “We are going to get back open as soon as we can.”
In the days since the raid, the Mount Vernon community has shown strong support for the restaurant. A GoFundMe campaign launched to help with recovery has raised nearly $6,000, highlighting the local outpouring of solidarity.
The fundraiser states that Panchos Tacos was forced to close after employees were detained and that both the owner and staff faced harassment during the event. The campaign notes:
“Now, Pancho’s faces major losses legal costs, unpaid staff, and everyday bills that don’t stop when business does. These are hardworking people who have poured their hearts into serving this town with kindness, culture, and incredible food.”
As Panchos Tacos works toward reopening, the situation has sparked broader discussions about immigration enforcement, workers’ rights, and community resilience in small-town Ohio.
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