LA County official allegedly urged gang members to defend territory from ICE, triggering FBI probe

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A Los Angeles County official is under FBI investigation after she posted a video on social media urging gang members to defend their territory from ICE, according to a FOX News exclusive report.

The official in question is Cynthia Gonzalez, who holds the position of vice mayor in Cudahy, located in southeast Los Angeles County. Gonzalez allegedly shared the video last week, where she seemed to be prompting members of the 18th Street and Florencia 13 gangs to protect their areas from ICE.

After the video surfaced, Gonzalez reportedly took to social media again, revealing that the FBI had visited her residence and that she was in need of legal representation, as per insider sources.

FBI Los Angeles told Fox News they could not confirm or deny an investigation was underway, but said they condemn any call for gang violence.

Los Angeles protests

Sheriff deputies stand among tear gas during a “No Kings” movement protest in the one-square mile area where daily protests were occurring in response to a series of federal immigration raids on June 14, 2025, in Los Angeles, California.  (David McNew/Getty Images)

The 18th Street gang has around 30,000 to 50,000 members, with its main source of income being distribution of cocaine and marijuana. Members also commit assault, auto theft, carjacking and robbery, among other crimes. Florencia 13 is a street gang based out of southern Los Angeles. Its members have recently been accused of crimes including fentanyl trafficking, extortion and murder, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

Earlier this week, LA City Controller Kenneth Mejia announced the recent anti-ICE protests will cost taxpayers $32 million. The protests, touted by many demonstrators as “peaceful,” resulted in nearly a dozen deputies suffering injuries.

Gonzalez and the City of Cudahy did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.

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