On Tuesday, New York City Comptroller Brad Lander was arrested by masked Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at a courthouse in Manhattan. He was reportedly trying to help someone avoid immigration authorities when he was taken into custody. This incident coincided with another arrest in Pico Rivera, California, where ICE agents detained two individuals outside a Walmart—one being a target of immigration enforcement and the other a U.S. citizen who attempted to intervene.
These events highlight a growing trend of federal agents wearing masks during operations, which has raised concerns across the country. On Thursday, reports emerged of masked agents from the Department of Homeland Security conducting actions at a Home Depot in Hollywood and Dodger Stadium. Critics argue that this practice is problematic for law enforcement. It may undermine the agents’ authority and pose risks to public safety.
Currently, there is no federal policy explicitly banning immigration agents from wearing masks. However, regulations require officers to identify themselves during arrests. The use of masks seems to contradict these guidelines, as it makes it difficult for the public to know who is enforcing the law.
The trend of masked ICE agents has become increasingly common, with sightings reported at protests in cities like Los Angeles, Minneapolis, and Boston. In March, a video of a Tufts University doctoral student being detained by masked officers went viral, further fueling public concern. The masks vary widely, including ski masks, surgical masks, and balaclavas, leading to confusion among bystanders and targets of enforcement actions.
Critics, including the International Association of Chiefs of Police, warn that masked officers can intimidate the public, leading to heightened defensive reactions. Todd Lyons, acting director of ICE, defended the use of masks, stating they are necessary for the safety of agents. However, critics argue that law enforcement operates under an expectation of transparency, and most police officers do not conceal their identities while performing their duties.
The practice of wearing masks has also led to a rise in impersonations of ICE agents, resulting in harassment and violence. In one case, a woman in Florida attempted to kidnap her ex-boyfriend’s wife while posing as an ICE agent, highlighting the dangers of masked enforcement.
The issue has sparked a debate about accountability and transparency in law enforcement. Recently, two Democratic lawmakers in California proposed a bill to prohibit law enforcement from wearing masks while on duty, with some exceptions. While this is a step forward, it remains uncertain whether such a state law could apply to federal agents.
In the end, the public’s need for accountability appears to outweigh any arguments for anonymity among immigration agents. As the conversation around this issue continues, many are calling for clearer policies regarding the use of masks in immigration enforcement.