Volunteer Pepper-Sprayed by Federal Agents at Santa Barbara County Jail Lobby
Zach Cosseboom, a volunteer observer for the immigrant advocacy group SB Resiste, was pepper-sprayed by federal immigration agents at the Santa Barbara County Jail lobby while observing ICE activity.
Santa Barbara Santa Maria San Luis Obispo, CA, September 18, 2026 —
A volunteer observer for the immigrant advocacy group SB Resiste was pepper-sprayed by federal immigration agents inside the Santa Barbara County Jail lobby. The incident occurred while the observer, identified as Zach Cosseboom, was present to monitor Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity.
The specific date and time of the incident were not provided. Similarly, details regarding the nature of the ICE activity being observed and the circumstances that led to the use of pepper spray remain undisclosed. The contractor involved in providing services at the jail was not identified in the provided information. The outcome of the incident, including whether any formal complaints were filed or investigations initiated, was not detailed. Federal immigration agents are reported to have deployed the pepper spray.
SB Resiste, the advocacy group for which Cosseboom volunteers, focuses on immigrant rights and community support. Volunteer observers often attend federal immigration operations to monitor proceedings, document activities, and ensure transparency.
The Santa Barbara County Jail serves as a facility where federal immigration operations may take place. Information regarding any official statements from ICE, the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office, or other relevant authorities concerning this event was not available. The contractor’s name was not provided. The fine amount was not provided. The inspection outcomes were not provided. What happened next was not provided.
Story summarized from the original created by Pricila Flores, Noozhawk Staff Writer on www.noozhawk.com, see more information here.
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