San Diego, January 7, 2026
Victor Rodriguez Ocampo Sr., owner of La Playa Taco Shop in San Diego, has been deported to Mexico after being detained by ICE. This action has sparked concern and support from the local community, which organized a GoFundMe campaign to assist with his legal expenses. Rodriguez Ocampo had been living in the U.S. for decades and operated his restaurant for nearly 30 years, creating a significant impact on the Pacific Beach area. His deportation raises pressing questions about immigration policies and their effects on local businesses.
San Diego, CA – La Playa Taco Shop Owner Deported to Mexico
Victor Rodriguez Ocampo Sr., the 54-year-old owner of La Playa Taco Shop in San Diego’s Pacific Beach, has been deported to Mexico following his detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on October 31, 2025. This action has raised significant concern within the local community, which had previously rallied in support of Rodriguez Ocampo during his legal proceedings.
Details of the Deportation
Rodriguez Ocampo was arrested outside his National City residence on Halloween morning by ICE agents. He was subsequently held at the Otay Mesa Detention Center while federal proceedings were underway. Despite legal representation and community efforts to prevent his removal, federal court records indicate that Rodriguez Ocampo was deported to Tijuana, Mexico. This deportation has separated him from his wife, children, and the restaurant he operated for nearly three decades.
Community Response and Support
In response to Rodriguez Ocampo’s detention, the Mission Beach community demonstrated strong support. Family members and loyal customers initiated a GoFundMe campaign to assist with legal expenses and to keep the restaurant operational during his absence. The campaign received substantial contributions, reflecting the community’s deep appreciation for Rodriguez Ocampo’s contributions to the local culture and economy.
Background of La Playa Taco Shop
Established nearly 30 years ago, La Playa Taco Shop has been a staple in Pacific Beach, known for its traditional Mexican cuisine and community involvement. Rodriguez Ocampo, along with his family, has been instrumental in the restaurant’s success and its role as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Legal and Immigration Context
Rodriguez Ocampo had lived in the United States for decades and had made multiple attempts to obtain legal residency, including work permits and residency applications. Despite these efforts, his immigration status remained unresolved, leading to his detention and eventual deportation. This case highlights the complexities and challenges faced by long-standing community members in navigating the U.S. immigration system.
Impact on the Community
The deportation of Rodriguez Ocampo has left a void in the Mission Beach community. While La Playa Taco Shop continues to operate under family management, the absence of its longtime owner is felt deeply by patrons and employees. The situation underscores broader discussions about immigration policies and their effects on local businesses and communities.
Looking Ahead
As the community continues to support the Rodriguez family, questions remain about the future of La Playa Taco Shop and the broader implications of this case. The situation serves as a poignant reminder of the personal stories behind immigration policies and the resilience of communities in the face of such challenges.
FAQ
Who is Victor Rodriguez Ocampo Sr.?
Victor Rodriguez Ocampo Sr. is the 54-year-old owner of La Playa Taco Shop in San Diego’s Pacific Beach, a restaurant he operated for nearly three decades.
What led to his deportation?
Rodriguez Ocampo was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on October 31, 2025, outside his National City residence. Despite legal efforts to prevent his removal, he was deported to Tijuana, Mexico.
How did the community respond?
The Mission Beach community showed strong support by initiating a GoFundMe campaign to assist with legal expenses and to keep the restaurant operational during his absence. The campaign received substantial contributions, reflecting the community’s deep appreciation for Rodriguez Ocampo’s contributions.
What is the status of La Playa Taco Shop?
La Playa Taco Shop continues to operate under family management, but the absence of its longtime owner is felt deeply by patrons and employees.
What does this case highlight?
This case highlights the complexities and challenges faced by long-standing community members in navigating the U.S. immigration system and the broader discussions about immigration policies and their effects on local businesses and communities.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Individual Involved | Victor Rodriguez Ocampo Sr., 54-year-old owner of La Playa Taco Shop |
| Event | Detained by ICE on October 31, 2025; deported to Tijuana, Mexico |
| Community Response | Initiated GoFundMe campaign; received substantial contributions |
| Restaurant Status | Continues to operate under family management |
| Broader Implications | Highlights complexities of U.S. immigration system; impacts on local businesses and communities |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
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