Justice Department moves to dismiss case against California labor leader David Huerta

The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a motion to dismiss the criminal case against David Huerta, president of the Service Employees International Union California, who was arrested during a protest against the Trump administration's immigration policies in June 2025. The U.S. attorney's office in Los Angeles stated that the case could be permanently withdrawn if Huerta continues to comply with the terms of his pretrial release. Huerta characterized his arrest as an infringement on his constitutional rights and claimed the case was an attempt to silence dissent against the administration. Initially charged with felony obstruction, the charge was later reduced to a misdemeanor. The Justice Department noted that Huerta's arrest was justified due to his alleged interference with a judicial search warrant. The case has drawn attention from union leaders and political figures, including Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, who expressed concern over Huerta's detention.