New York Attorney General Letitia James is leading a coalition of 20 attorneys general urging Congress to pass legislation banning Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from wearing masks during arrests. The coalition argues that masked agents, often in plainclothes and using unmarked vehicles, create confusion and fear, making it difficult for people to determine if a kidnapping is occurring or to report misconduct.

Attorney General James emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, stating, "It is deeply disturbing that masked agents can pull people off the streets in unmarked cars without ever identifying themselves as law enforcement." The coalition's letter to Congress highlights the safety risks posed to individuals being apprehended, ICE agents, and the public, who may mistakenly intervene in what appears to be an abduction.

The attorneys general are advocating for legislation such as the "No Secret Police Act" and the "Visible Identification Standards for Immigration-Based Law Enforcement (VISIBLE) Act" to ensure ICE agents clearly identify themselves. According to Attorney General James, current ICE practices often flout federal law requiring agents to identify themselves when detaining suspects.

The issue has gained attention amid reports of masked ICE agents conducting raids in Los Angeles and other cities, leading to protests and concerns about civil rights violations. Some detainees have mistaken ICE agents for criminals, and there is a rise in impersonation crimes. Despite the push for reform, Republican leaders in Congress have indicated they do not plan to advance the proposed measures, leaving their future uncertain.

Christa Cooper