New York Unveils Reporting Tool for Citizens to Share ICE Footage After Detentions of Four US Citizens

New York state AG has launched a fresh digital platform encouraging citizens to submit images and footage of federal immigration enforcement around the state. This action follows a shortly after a high-profile ICE raid rattled NYC's Chinatown, sparking large-scale demonstrations.

American Citizens Held In ICE Operation

A US congressman disclosed during a Wednesday press conference that four American citizens were detained and held for "about 24 hours" after the enforcement action. Demonstrations erupted in New York on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"Each citizen deserves to live without fear," state officials wrote in a release.

"For those who saw and recorded federal operations recently, I encourage you to submit that evidence with my office. We are committed to examining these submissions and investigating any wrongdoings."

Portal Features

The portal offers fields to send visual evidence of the raid, along with a field to indicate where it occurred. Before submitting, submitters must check a option that acknowledges that "the attorney general may use any evidence provided in a public document, such as in a lawsuit or government document."

Information about the ICE Action

The Chinatown raid, which onlookers say included dozens of ICE personnel, occurred in a popular area of NYC where fake handbags, accessories, jewelry and merchandise are commonly traded in large quantities – frequently to visitors.

Videos of Tuesday's raid reveal multiple masked and armed personnel securing and holding a individual, and shoving away bystanders. Crowds of New Yorkers followed the agents down the sidewalks. An armored military vehicle was also seen rolling through the city streets.

Official Reactions

In a news conference organized with the rights organization, Representative Goldman, a Democrat, announced that four nationals were detained by ICE for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no situations where US citizens should be arrested for without cause." He clarified the persons were freed on Wednesday with no charges filed.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," Goldman stated. "This constitutes a militarized effort to provoke unrest. It is merely a justification to incite violence for the government to deploy the military to halt conflict that they have created."

Broad Criticism

Fury over the federal action rapidly grew – all three political contenders denounced the operation, as did NY's governor.

"Yet again, the current administration opts for oppressive displays that create fear, not safety. It must stop," a contender declared.

The city's immigrant rights groups voiced concern as well.

"ICE raided Manhattan's Chinatown with armored transports, hooded officers and protective equipment to target street vendors attempting to earn income. This raid had no relation to community security and focused completely on intimidating residents and neighborhoods," stated the president of a advocacy group.

ICE Policies

Official guidelines forbids the holding of citizens and the organization has said it will not apprehend citizens. Nevertheless, external research has revealed that over 170 citizens have been detained unlawfully by immigration authorities since the beginning of the present government.

Current Situation

ICE raids have been cropping up increasingly in NY and around the country this year.

An October operation in central NYC was the earliest reported action on an refuge facility of the existing leadership. Protests opposing immigration enforcement are ubiquitous as are accusations of violence and inhumane treatment.

Recently, a submission submitted by civil rights groups claimed healthcare failures of women with child in ICE facilities.