Monrovia residents press council for independent probe and sanctuary‑city measures after death of Carlos Roberto Montoya Valdez

Several Monrovia residents used the public‑comment period on Feb. 17 to urge action after the death of Carlos Roberto Montoya Valdez and to press for local protections for immigrants.

Sherry Lochner, a Monrovia resident, said an independent review is required and called for an ordinance declaring Monrovia a sanctuary city, prohibiting city employees from holding positions with ICE, restricting ICE operations on city property, requiring body‑worn cameras during federal immigration enforcement with preserved footage, and creating a permanent memorial for victims. "We demand an independent investigation to ensure those responsible are held fully accountable under the law," Lochner said.

Martha Mack read a list of names she said were people who died in ICE custody or as a result of ICE actions and expressed support for the memorial request. Adrianna, a representative from Assembly Member John Harabedian's office, also offered remarks recognizing local leaders and thanking Mayor Pro Tem Tamela Kelly for her service but did not address the investigation requests directly.

City Manager Dylan Feek responded during the staff directives update that the city has repeatedly reached out to the California Highway Patrol, the governor’s office and the attorney general’s office seeking the investigative report but has little information to share because the CHP conducts the investigation. "The city does not undertake that. It is conducted by CHP," Feek said, noting the city will continue to seek the report.

Status: The council offered no immediate motion to open an independent investigation or to place a sanctuary ordinance on an agenda during the meeting; the requests therefore remain outstanding. City staff said they will continue outreach to CHP and state offices for information.