Attorneys General Urge Congress to Rein in ICE Mask Tactics
In a move to enhance transparency and accountability, Michigan’s attorney general, Dana Nessel, is spearheading an initiative urging Congress to legislate against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers concealing their identities during operations. This call to action comes in the form of a letter co-signed by 21 state attorneys general, as concerns mount over ICE’s use of masks and plainclothes in the field.
The practice of ICE officers wearing masks and not clearly identifying themselves has attracted criticism, with instances reported of individuals masquerading as ICE agents to commit crimes. Nessel expressed her concern, stating, “Often times is that ICE is not even coordinating with local or county law enforcement. So, when people have a question, say, ‘Oh my God, are these really ICE officers or not? Are they out here executing search warrants or conducting operations?’ Locals don’t even know about it.”
The backdrop to these developments is a significant increase in immigration enforcement under the Trump administration, which has reportedly set a daily target of 3,000 arrests. This intensified effort has seen several local law enforcement agencies in Michigan either formally or informally assisting ICE operations.
According to Department of Homeland Security data, some local agencies have signed agreements with ICE, while others, such as the Michigan State Police, may be providing support without formal agreements.
Nessel highlighted the difficulties faced by Michigan law enforcement working alongside ICE, as local officers are typically not permitted to cover their faces while on duty. She remarked, “My agents? You know, we execute search warrants all the time. But they’re not masked when they do it and they’re absolutely identified as being special agents of the Department of the Attorney General. We should expect no less from ICE or any other federal agency.”
The letter to Congress, reflecting growing unease over ICE practices, calls for legislative action. However, given the current Republican majority in Congress, the likelihood of immediate action remains low, especially after recent approval of a spending bill aimed at increasing funding for immigration enforcement.
ICE has not yet commented on the letter or the ongoing concerns regarding their operational tactics.
—
Read More Michigan News
