Landscaper-Agent Clash: Weed Whacker & Arrest – Mercury News
- Border Patrol is facing scrutiny after accusing Narciso Barranco, 48, a Santa Ana landscaper, of assaulting agents with a weed whacker during a forceful detention last week.
- The video, posted on social media, depicts Barranco being pinned, pepper-sprayed, and repeatedly struck in the head.
- The agency's video shows Barranco turning toward agents with the tool,making a motion described as a "swing." However,the video does not clarify if the agents identified themselves before...
A Santa Ana landscaper’s arrest by Border Patrol agents has sparked controversy following the release of a video, which shows the landscaper being subdued after an alleged weed whacker attack. The incident, involving Narciso Barranco, has led to accusations of excessive force and calls for an inquiry into the agents’ conduct. Border Patrol claims Barranco resisted arrest, while his family disputes this account. The family, including three U.S. Marines, questions the events. Videos show the landscaper being punched, pepper-sprayed and pinned down. A GoFundMe campaign has also been created to deal with the legal expenses. For factual reporting on this developing story, including the Border Patrol, weed whacker, and landscaper arrest details, News Directory 3 offers thorough coverage. Discover what’s next as this case unfolds.
Border Patrol Alleges Weed Whacker Attack in Landscaper Arrest
Updated June 25, 2025
The U.S. Border Patrol is facing scrutiny after accusing Narciso Barranco, 48, a Santa Ana landscaper, of assaulting agents with a weed whacker during a forceful detention last week. the incident, which occurred while Barranco was working at an IHOP, has ignited controversy following the circulation of a video showing agents subduing him.
The video, posted on social media, depicts Barranco being pinned, pepper-sprayed, and repeatedly struck in the head. Border Patrol, in response, asserted that Barranco swung the weed whacker at them and resisted arrest. The agency posted an edited video clip on X, stating, “Show the full story. If you swing a WEED WACKER at federal agents, run through traffic, and refuse to comply – there WILL be consequences.”
The agency’s video shows Barranco turning toward agents with the tool,making a motion described as a ”swing.” However,the video does not clarify if the agents identified themselves before drawing their weapons. The Border Patrol has not commented on why Barranco was repeatedly punched while restrained.
According to a statement, Border patrol agents in uniform approached Barranco on June 21. They claim he refused to answer questions, fled, and then swung the trimmer. The agency maintains Barranco sustained only minor scrapes during the arrest and is being processed for removal.
Barranco’s family expressed concern about his well-being, stating they were unsure if he received medical attention while in custody at the Los Angeles detention facility. They could not be reached for comment Tuesday. Three of Barranco’s sons are U.S. Marines.
Alejandro Barranco,the landscaper’s oldest son and a former Marine,voiced his dismay after viewing the video. “I feel betrayed,” Barranco said Sunday. “My dad has no criminal history. He wasn’t doing anything bad. He was just working.The way they (federal agents) attacked him,I don’t think it’s right.”
A GoFundMe campaign for Barranco’s legal expenses has raised over $195,000 since Saturday,reflecting public concern over the landscaper arrest and the use of force.
What’s next
the incident is likely to spur further investigation into Border Patrol’s tactics and the circumstances surrounding Barranco’s arrest. The legal proceedings and any internal reviews will be closely watched.