MISSION BEACH – The owner of a popular Mexican restaurant in Mission Beach who was seized and detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Halloween has been deported to Mexico after being held for about two months at the Otay Mesa Detention Center.
Victor Rodriguez Ocampo Sr., 54, owner of La Playa Taco Shop at 3973 Mission Blvd., was seized early in the morning of Oct. 31 just outside his National City home. His family confirmed on Jan. 6 that he has been deported to Mexico, despite having little or no connection to anyone south of the U.S.-Mexico border.
A clerk at La Playa Taco Shop said the restaurateur’s family was distraught and did not immediately wish to comment on his deportation. His son, Victor Rodriguez Jr., who stepped in to replace his father by working a second job at La Playa during his absence, has established a GoFundMe to defray his dad’s legal expenses.
To date, that fundraiser has raised $18,558 from 247 donations, 93% of the original fundraising goal of $20,000.
Rodriguez Jr. has since joined the U.S. Navy.
“Victor Rodriguez Ocampo is the heart and soul behind La Playa Taco Shop in Pacific Beach,” wrote his son in a post on his dad’s GoFundMe page.
“My dad is a strong family man who has always put others before himself, supporting our family, his employees, and the incredible community he’s built through his small business. La Playa Taco Shop has become more than just a place to eat; it’s a gathering spot where he’s welcomed everyone with kindness and generosity.
“This sudden and devastating situation has left our family in shock and struggling to keep things together. We are deeply worried about his health and safety,” reads the GoFundMe post.
The GoFundMe adds that funds raised will help fight for his safety and well-being, keep the family and business going, and spread awareness of what has happened to so many people in the United States.
“We’re asking for your support, whether it’s a donation or simply sharing our story. Any contribution or share truly means the world to us and brings us one step closer to reuniting our family and keeping my dad’s legacy alive in our community,” the post continues.
“The support has been immense, and we are eternally grateful. It just shows the impact my dad has had on the community,” Rodriguez Jr. said previously about generous donors to his fundraiser. “I also think it should shine a light on other families who are facing similar predicaments.”
Rodriguez Jr. said his dad has been running La Playa, a traditional Mexican taco shop, for about 30 years. He added that the ICE raid took their family completely by surprise.
“What really astonished us is we did not have a warning whatsoever,” he said. “There was no card in the mail or anything. He was getting ready early in the morning to pick up ingredients for the restaurant, and as he was getting into his truck, about four (ICE) cars came in and took him.”
Three hours or so later, Rodriguez Jr. got a call from his dad saying, “They picked me up. Take care of your mom. I love you guys.”
Rodriguez Jr. noted his family understands that “there needs to be clearly set standards and parameters” when it comes to immigration policy. But he was quick to add, “Each case should be looked at in its own specific manner. I feel they’re making unjustified decisions on individuals who aren’t on the same level as criminals.”
To donate to the Rodriguez Ocampa family GoFundMe, visit the online fundraiser.
