HUNTINGTON PARK, Calif. – A 24-year-old Los Angeles man was arrested Tuesday night for allegedly impersonating a federal agent and possessing a loaded firearm and law enforcement-style equipment, officials announced at a Friday press conference.
Fernando Diaz was taken into custody around 10:20 p.m. in the 7000 block of South Alameda Street after police responded to an illegally parked Dodge Durango in a handicap spot. The SUV had visible red and blue lights, police-style radios, and a firearm magazine—prompting concerns it could be an unmarked law enforcement vehicle.
Officers confirmed the SUV was registered to a private owner, not a law enforcement agency. Diaz approached the vehicle during the investigation, claiming ownership and saying the gear belonged to a friend. He also claimed past employment with U.S. Customs and Border Protection but failed to provide valid credentials.
Further checks revealed Diaz had an outstanding DUI warrant and a prior arrest for human smuggling. Police arrested him at the scene and searched the vehicle, uncovering a loaded 9mm handgun, holsters, extra ammunition, multiple cellphones, fake passports, and documents with federal agency letterheads.
Authorities say they also found radio code sheets and other paraphernalia suggesting intent to impersonate federal agents. Diaz later stopped cooperating and requested legal counsel.
Huntington Park Mayor Arturo Flores emphasized the broader impact of such impersonations, especially amid rising concerns over unverified ICE operations in the area. “If you are acting with federal authority, then show it. Identify yourselves,” Flores stated firmly.
The City Council recently passed a resolution requiring local police to verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a federal immigration agent, following reports of unmarked vehicles and masked individuals confronting residents.
Police Chief Cosme Lozano said the case underscores serious concerns about public safety, impersonation, and the need for better verification of federal enforcement activities.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be forthcoming.
