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The state AG has rolled out a new digital platform asking citizens to share images and footage of federal immigration enforcement around the state. This action comes just a day after a major enforcement action shook Chinatown in Manhattan, prompting mass outcry.

US Citizens Held During Enforcement Action

A lawmaker announced during a news conference that four American citizens were arrested and detained for "nearly 24 hours" after the enforcement action. Rallies broke out in the city on consecutive evenings.

"Each citizen deserves to exist without intimidation," the attorney general wrote in a announcement.

"Anyone who observed and documented federal operations during the raid, I ask you to share that material with us. We are committed to examining these submissions and determining any legal breaches."

Submission Process

The portal provides fields to submit visual evidence of the incident, plus a area to indicate location information. Prior to sending, submitters must check a option that states that "authorities may use any documents, photographs, or videos in a public document, including in a legal proceeding or public report."

Information about the ICE Action

The enforcement action, which onlookers say involved dozens of federal agents, occurred in a popular neighborhood of Manhattan where counterfeit purses, items, goods and additional items are regularly available widely – often to tourists.

Videos of the operation reveal several covered and weaponized federal agents zip-tying and detaining a individual, and shoving away witnesses. Crowds of New Yorkers pursued the officers down the sidewalks. An military-style transport was also seen moving along the Manhattan avenues.

Political Response

At a Wednesday press conference featuring the immigrant advocacy group, congressman Dan Goldman, a Democratic representative, stated that four nationals were detained by ICE for about 24 hours and that there were "no circumstances where four American citizens should be arrested for without cause." He noted the individuals were freed on the following day with no accusations made.

"There's a clear purpose here. It is not to take criminals off the street," the congressman remarked. "This represents a militarized effort to provoke unrest. It is merely a excuse to incite violence for the government to utilize the troops to halt violence that they have created."

Broad Criticism

Fury over the federal action quickly spread – each of the NYC mayor hopefuls denounced the operation, including the state leader.

"Once again, the federal government opts for oppressive displays that instill panic, instead of protection. It needs to cease," one mayoral candidate declared.

NYC community groups voiced concern as well.

"Federal officers descended on Manhattan's Chinatown with military-style vehicles, hooded officers and tactical gear to focus on small merchants attempting to earn income. This operation had nothing to do with public safety and was entirely about intimidating residents and areas," stated the president of a advocacy group.

Agency Rules

Official guidelines prohibits the holding of citizens and the agency has said it refrains from apprehend American nationals. Yet, investigative journalism has found that more than 170 US citizens have been taken illegally by federal agents since the beginning of the current administration.

Recent Pattern

Immigration operations have been cropping up increasingly in the state and across the US this year.

A mid-October raid in central NYC was the initial documented operation on an refuge facility of the current administration. Rallies opposing federal operations are widespread as are allegations of force and cruel conditions.

Recently, a letter submitted by legal entities alleged medical neglect of pregnant women in government custody.