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The state attorney general has launched a new reporting form asking residents to provide images and footage of federal immigration enforcement across the state. This step comes just a shortly after a major enforcement action shook Chinatown in Manhattan, sparking mass protests.

US Citizens Held During Enforcement Action

A congressional representative disclosed during a midweek briefing that four citizens were detained and detained for "almost a full day" after the previous day's operation. Protests occurred in NYC on Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

"Every New Yorker has the right to reside free from terror," state officials declared in a release.

"For those who saw and documented federal operations during the raid, I urge you to share that material with my office. We are committed to reviewing these accounts and evaluating any violations of law."

Portal Features

The form offers spaces to submit photos and videos of the operation, as well as a area to note location information. When submitting, submitters must check a option that acknowledges that "the attorney general could utilize any documents, photographs, or videos in a official report, including in a lawsuit or government document."

Details of the Chinatown Raid

The Chinatown raid, which onlookers say featured more than 50 federal agents, occurred in a well-known district of the city where fake handbags, accessories, jewelry and merchandise are commonly traded en masse – typically to visitors.

Videos of the incident depict multiple masked and armed personnel restraining and arresting a man, and forcing aside witnesses. Crowds of New Yorkers followed the officers along the roads. An armored truck was observed moving along the Manhattan avenues.

Leadership Statements

During a Wednesday press conference featuring the immigrant advocacy group, congressman Dan Goldman, a Democrat, said that four US citizens were detained by ICE for almost a full day and that there were "no situations where US citizens should be taken for without cause." He noted the persons were released on the following day with no accusations made.

"The goal is evident here. It is not focused on deporting lawbreakers," Goldman said. "This constitutes a military-style operation to incite tension. It is merely a justification to generate turmoil for federal officials to bring in the troops to halt conflict that they have created."

Widespread Condemnation

Anger over the ICE raid escalated – each of the political contenders condemned the raid, including Governor Kathy Hochul.

"Yet again, the current administration selects oppressive displays that instill panic, instead of protection. It has to end," a contender declared.

The city's community groups expressed outrage too.

"Federal officers raided Chinatown in NYC with military-style vehicles, masked agents and tactical gear to target local sellers working to survive. This raid had no relation to citizen protection and focused completely on terrorizing immigrant families and neighborhoods," remarked the leader of a major immigrant coalition.

Agency Rules

ICE policy bans the arrest of American nationals and the organization has claimed it will not arrest or detain US citizens. Yet, independent reporting has found that more than 170 citizens have been detained unlawfully by federal agents since the beginning of the present government.

Ongoing Trend

Enforcement actions have been rising in frequency in the state and nationwide this year.

A recent action in the city center was the earliest reported action on an immigrant shelter of the current administration. Demonstrations targeting immigration enforcement are widespread along with allegations of force and inhumane treatment.

Most recently, a letter submitted by advocacy organizations alleged healthcare failures of expectant mothers in ICE facilities.