Nevada Attorney General Aaron D. Ford, along with 19 other attorneys general, has called on Congress to pass legislation aimed at limiting the use of masks by federal immigration agents during operations. In a letter addressed to Congress, the coalition criticized the current practices of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers who wear masks and plainclothes while detaining individuals in various locations. The letter highlights concerns about safety risks and fear induced by such tactics.
AG Ford discussed these issues with Lester Hayes, Jr., Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations in Las Vegas. "We had a productive conversation around the dangers this practice presents," Ford said. He emphasized that masking should be limited to special circumstances as it undermines transparent governance principles.
The coalition's letter warns that without clear identification, ICE agents may not be recognized as federal officers, leading to potential intervention from bystanders or local law enforcement involvement. There is also concern about impersonation opportunities that could exploit community members.
While acknowledging certain protective measures might be necessary in specific situations, the attorneys general argue against widespread mask usage by federal agents due to its impact on democratic principles and public trust. They urge Congress to establish guidelines ensuring transparency and accountability in federal immigration enforcement.
Attorney General Ford's initiative is supported by attorneys general from Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington.