Some employees detained during a federal raid at Nutrition Bar Confectioners in Ira on Thursday have been released.
Owner Lenny Schmidt told The Citizen that about 10 of the 69 detained employees have been released, with some already returning to work.
The raid, carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Border Patrol, began around 9 a.m. with masked agents using crowbars, dune buggies, and dogs to enter the factory. Witnesses said agents repeatedly shouted, “We have a warrant!” as employees were detained.
All 230 employees of the business were interviewed and required to provide proof of citizenship, with failure to do so resulting in detention.
Cayuga County Sheriff Brian Schenck explained the local law enforcement agency’s involvement in last week’s radio. Read more by clicking here
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