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New York state AG has introduced a new online portal encouraging residents to share photos and videos of federal immigration enforcement across the state. This step comes just a shortly after a major enforcement action shook Chinatown in Manhattan, prompting mass demonstrations.

American Citizens Arrested In Enforcement Action

A US congressman revealed during a midweek briefing that four US citizens were detained and held for "nearly 24 hours" following the previous day's operation. Protests occurred in New York on both Tuesday and Wednesday.

"Each citizen is entitled to live without fear," state officials declared in a announcement.

"Anyone who observed and documented immigration enforcement recently, I urge you to provide that material with the authorities. We are dedicated to examining these reports and investigating any legal breaches."

Portal Features

The portal provides fields to submit images and video footage of the incident, plus a area to indicate location information. Before submitting, users must mark a box that acknowledges that "the office could utilize any materials, images, or footage in a official report, including in a lawsuit or official statement."

Information about the Chinatown Raid

The Chinatown raid, which onlookers say featured dozens of federal agents, occurred in a well-known neighborhood of the city where fake handbags, accessories, jewelry and additional items are regularly available widely – often to sightseers.

Recordings of Tuesday's raid depict multiple masked and armed officers securing and holding a man, and forcing aside onlookers. Masses of residents trailed the agents down the sidewalks. An armored military vehicle was observed moving along the city streets.

Leadership Statements

At a midweek briefing organized with the New York immigrant rights coalition, congressman Dan Goldman, a Democrat, stated that four US citizens were arrested by immigration for about 24 hours and that there were "no conditions where US citizens should be arrested for unjustly." He clarified the persons were freed on the following day with no charges filed.

"The goal is evident here. It is not to take criminals off the street," Goldman remarked. "This constitutes a military-style operation to incite tension. It is simply a justification to provoke conflict for this administration to bring in the armed forces to halt unrest that they initiated."

Extensive Outcry

Outrage over the immigration operation escalated – each of the NYC mayor hopefuls criticized the incident, including NY's governor.

"Repeatedly, the Trump administration chooses authoritarian theatrics that instill panic, rather than security. It must stop," a contender declared.

New York City immigrant rights groups voiced concern as well.

"ICE descended on the neighborhood with military-style vehicles, covered personnel and protective equipment to target local sellers attempting to earn income. This action had no relation to public safety and was entirely about frightening communities and areas," stated the head of a major immigrant coalition.

Agency Rules

Agency rules forbids the arrest of American nationals and the agency has stated it will not apprehend citizens. However, investigative journalism has revealed 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 becoming more common in NY and around the country recently.

A recent action in the city center was the initial documented operation on an refuge facility of the existing leadership. Protests targeting ICE are widespread as are allegations of violence and abusive practices.

Recently, a submission provided by advocacy organizations alleged healthcare failures of pregnant women in government custody.