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The state AG has launched a new online portal asking citizens to share images and footage of federal immigration enforcement across the state. This action comes just a day after a major enforcement action rattled Manhattan's Chinatown, prompting widespread demonstrations.

US Citizens Detained During Raid

A US congressman revealed during a midweek briefing that four citizens were detained and held for "almost a full day" following the enforcement action. Protests occurred in New York on consecutive evenings.

"Each citizen deserves to live without fear," the attorney general wrote in a release.

"Anyone who observed and captured federal operations recently, I encourage you to submit that footage with the authorities. We are dedicated to reviewing these reports and determining any legal breaches."

Portal Features

The platform provides fields to send photos and videos of the incident, along with a section to specify geographic details. Prior to sending, users must check a checkbox that acknowledges that "the office could utilize any evidence provided in a legal proceeding, including in a legal proceeding or government document."

Information about the Chinatown Raid

The Manhattan operation, which witnesses say featured over fifty government officers, took place in a well-known area of NYC where fake products and other goods are commonly traded in large quantities – frequently to visitors.

Recordings of the operation depict multiple covered and weaponized personnel securing and holding a man, and forcing aside onlookers. Masses of residents followed the officers through the streets. An military-style transport was noticed rolling through the Manhattan avenues.

Official Reactions

At a news conference held with the New York immigrant rights coalition, Representative Goldman, a Democrat, announced that four US citizens were arrested by immigration for nearly 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where nationals should be arrested for without cause." He noted the persons were freed on the following day with no charges filed.

"The intent is obvious here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," he said. "This is a militarized effort to create conflict. It is simply a justification to generate turmoil for the government to deploy the military to halt violence that they themselves caused."

Broad Criticism

Outrage over the federal action escalated – all three political contenders criticized the raid, along with Governor Kathy Hochul.

"Yet again, the current administration selects heavy-handed tactics that create fear, instead of protection. It must stop," a political candidate stated.

NYC immigrant rights groups expressed outrage as well.

"Federal officers descended on Chinatown in NYC with military-style vehicles, covered personnel and protective equipment to go after small merchants trying to make a living. This operation had no connection to citizen protection and focused completely on terrorizing immigrant families and neighborhoods," said the leader of a major immigrant coalition.

ICE Policies

ICE policy forbids the detention of US citizens and the bureau has said it does not take into custody American nationals. However, independent reporting has found that more than 170 citizens have been held against their will by ICE since the start of the present government.

Current Situation

Immigration operations have been cropping up increasingly in the state and nationwide lately.

An October operation in midtown Manhattan was the earliest reported action on an housing center of the present government. Protests opposing federal operations are ubiquitous along with allegations of aggression and inhumane treatment.

Latest, a document submitted by advocacy organizations stated medical neglect of women with child in ICE facilities.