The Region : Immigrants’ Rights Leader Detained

Carmen Lima, a leader of two Los Angeles immigrants’ rights groups, and her husband Heriberto were detained for a deportation hearing by federal authorities after they presented themselves at U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service headquarters here for questioning as to whether they are in this country illegally. She and her husband were accompanied by their four children, two parish priests and about 50 supporters. Lima, 41, told reporters that the INS action was a “political bust” meant to intimidate her. “They are trying to make an example of me, because I’m working for immigration and tenants’ rights.” Ernest Gustavson, district INS director, said warrants were issued for the couple based on information that they are in the country illegally, including Lima’s own admission of her illegal status on a nationally broadcast television talk show last year. The Limas are expected to post bail, set at $5,000 each, today.