Letitia James Asks Public to Spy on Federal ICE Officers

New York Attorney General Letitia James is once again in the spotlight, this time for asking the public to submit videos of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in New York.

Her request came just one day after federal agents carried out a major operation in Manhattan’s Chinatown, arresting multiple individuals in an area known for street vendors.

“Every New Yorker has the right to live without fear or intimidation,” James said in a press release, linking to a new portal for residents to upload videos of ICE actions. “If you witnessed and documented ICE activity yesterday, I urge you to share that footage with my office. We are committed to reviewing these reports and assessing any violations of law. No one should be subject to unlawful questioning, detention, or intimidation.”

But federal officials quickly pushed back. “This sure looks like obstruction of justice,” said Department of Homeland Security spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin. “If you obstruct or assault our law enforcement, we will hunt you down and you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

James’ highly publicized announcement comes as she faces her own criminal indictment on allegations of bank fraud. She has dismissed the charges as “nothing more than a continuation of the president’s desperate weaponization of our justice system,” framing herself as a political target after spearheading the civil fraud case against former President Donald Trump.

Tuesday’s ICE operation involving more than 50 agents. DHS said nine “illegal aliens” were arrested, while additional individuals were detained during ensuing protests.

James, meanwhile, is doubling down on her office’s efforts to track and monitor federal immigration enforcement. Her new reporting portal mirrors efforts by House Democrats who recently previewed an “ICE tracker” to document arrests.

Supporters of ICE argue these crackdowns are targeting individuals engaged in illegal activity. Online activists had flagged Canal Street as a hotspot for unlicensed vendors and “migrant scammers.” Just days later, ICE responded with arrests. New York officials, including Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration, denounced the arrests as politically motivated.

Republicans say that James’ actions raise questions about where her focus lies: on enforcing state law or on undermining federal immigration enforcement at a time when she is already under indictment.

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Letitia James Asks Public to Spy on Federal ICE Officers