Hispanic TikToker Arrested by ICE in Los Angeles During Live Stream

Hispanic TikToker arrested live by ICE

Colombian TikToker under custody

Deportation process underway

Hispanic TikToker Arrested Live by ICE

A Colombian immigrant TikToker was detained Friday in Los Angeles by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents while streaming live from a car.

The content creator, identified as Leidy Tatiana Mafla Martínez, has tens of thousands of followers on TikTok where she addresses immigration issues.

The arrest took place amid a chaotic scene recorded in a live video, confirmed by CNN, in which the young woman pleaded with agents to wait before detaining her.

Another recording, captured by a passing driver, shows officers pulling her from the passenger seat and taking her into custody.

Colombian TikToker Arrested on Live Stream

Leidy Tatiana Mafla-Martinez is a Colombian immigrant and TikTok influencer known for documenting and exposing ICE raids and immigration enforcement. Her arrest sparked outrage, highlighting ICE’s harsh tactics and the urgent need for justice and compassion for immigrants. pic.twitter.com/Cjtjvyduhi

— NowThis Impact (@nowthisimpact) August 18, 2025

Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security Tricia McLaughlin described Mafla Martínez as an “illegal criminal alien from Colombia” who had previously been convicted of driving under the influence in Los Angeles.

According to McLaughlin, the TikToker entered the U.S. in 2022 and was released by the Biden administration, although authorities have not disclosed details about the circumstances of that release.

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CNN reported that it requested more information from the Department of Homeland Security regarding Mafla Martínez’s immigration status and the legal proceedings to follow in her case.

During the arrest, the young woman stated she was having trouble breathing and received medical attention before being transported to a detention center.

Authorities Emphasize Her Record

You bet we did, @Newsweek.

Leidy Tatiana Mafla-Martinez is a CRIMINAL ILLEGAL ALIEN from Colombia who was convicted for driving under the influence in Los Angeles. Martinez entered the country in 2022 and was RELEASED by the Biden administration.

Under President Trump and… pic.twitter.com/cl82yI8Ixx

— Homeland Security (@DHSgov) August 18, 2025

McLaughlin added that she will remain in ICE custody while her deportation case proceeds.

According to court documents, in 2023 Mafla Martínez was arrested for DUI and entered a “nolo contendere” plea — meaning she did not contest the charge.

Her sentence included three years of probation, fines, and mandatory participation in educational programs on alcohol and driving.

The lawyer who represented her in that case has not yet commented on her new detention.

A Case That Sparks Debate

ICE custody records show she is currently held at the Imperial Regional Detention Facility in Calexico, California.

Her case has fueled debate because of her visibility on social media, where she discussed immigration issues and shared advice with other migrants.

The fact that the arrest happened during a live broadcast adds another layer to the discussion on surveillance and immigration law enforcement in the United States.