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The state AG has introduced a new digital platform encouraging residents to provide photos and videos of federal immigration enforcement across the state. This move comes just a shortly after a high-profile ICE raid disrupted NYC's Chinatown, triggering large-scale demonstrations.

US Citizens Arrested During ICE Operation

A congressional representative disclosed during a midweek briefing that four US citizens were arrested and kept for "almost a full day" after the previous day's operation. Rallies broke out in the city on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"All New York residents deserves to exist without intimidation," the AG stated in a release.

"Anyone who observed and recorded ICE activity recently, I urge you to submit that evidence with us. We are pledged to assessing these accounts and determining any legal breaches."

Portal Features

The form includes options to submit images and video footage of the operation, along with a section to indicate where it occurred. When submitting, individuals must mark a checkbox that acknowledges that "the office could utilize any evidence provided in a official report, such as in a legal proceeding or government document."

Details of the ICE Action

The Chinatown raid, which witnesses say included more than 50 federal agents, happened in a popular neighborhood of the city where counterfeit products and other goods are commonly traded widely – often to sightseers.

Videos of the operation show numerous covered and weaponized officers restraining and arresting a person, and forcing aside bystanders. Masses of residents trailed the agents along the roads. An military-style transport was observed rolling through the Manhattan avenues.

Leadership Statements

In a midweek briefing held with the rights organization, congressman Dan Goldman, a Democratic representative, said that four US citizens were taken by federal agents for almost a full day and that there were "no conditions where US citizens should be arrested for unjustly." He said the individuals were released on Wednesday with no legal action taken.

"The goal is evident here. It is not about removing offenders," he remarked. "This represents a armed campaign to provoke unrest. It is merely a excuse to provoke conflict for federal officials to bring in the armed forces to halt conflict that they themselves caused."

Widespread Condemnation

Outrage over the ICE raid escalated – each of the political contenders condemned the incident, including NY's governor.

"Once again, the federal government opts for oppressive displays that instill panic, rather than security. It needs to cease," a political candidate stated.

New York City community groups expressed outrage too.

"ICE targeted Manhattan's Chinatown with tactical trucks, masked agents and riot gear to go after street vendors trying to make a living. This operation had nothing to do with community security and focused completely on terrorizing immigrant families and neighborhoods," said the leader of a rights organization.

Official Guidelines

Agency rules bans the detention of US citizens and the organization has stated it refrains from arrest or detain citizens. Nevertheless, investigative journalism has found that numerous citizens have been detained unlawfully by federal agents during the period of the existing leadership.

Current Situation

ICE raids have been becoming more common in NY and around the country this year.

A mid-October raid in central NYC was the earliest reported action on an housing center of the existing leadership. Demonstrations opposing federal operations are commonplace as are accusations of violence and abusive practices.

Recently, a submission provided by legal entities alleged inadequate care of women with child in ICE facilities.