Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity was reported in Jersey City and Hoboken, New Jersey on Sunday, prompting responses from local officials and circulating video of an arrest in the Heights neighborhood of Jersey City.
Confirmed ICE Presence and Local Response
Assemblyman Ravi Bhalla, representing Hoboken and Jersey City, stated he received reports of ICE operations and viewed video footage of an interaction between an agent and a civilian. Bhalla urged residents to remain vigilant, lawfully record any ICE encounters, and consider staying home if necessary. Jersey City Mayor James Solomon and Hoboken Mayor Emily Jabbour both confirmed ICE’s presence in the area, with Jabbour noting she spoke with witnesses.
Mayor Solomon emphasized residents’ rights, stating, “You have rights, and this city will defend them.” He affirmed that Jersey City police will not assist federal immigration enforcement without a valid judicial warrant and that no city-owned property will be used for raids, citing a recent Executive Order strengthening the city’s protections.
Video and Reports of ICE Actions
A three-minute video circulating on social media appears to show a federal agent arresting a man near a light rail elevator. During the encounter, the agent warned a woman recording the arrest that she would be arrested if she approached too closely. The agent responded to her assertion that she was allowed to film by stating, “You can film, but don’t get close.” As the agent escorted the man to a black van – described as having no front license plate and an indecipherable rear plate – he told the woman, “Go get a job,” to which she replied, “I’m on my way to work.”
Recent reports indicate ICE has been active elsewhere in New Jersey, including the arrest of a Morris County teenager (who was later released) and a father while his 6-year-old daughter cried out for him. National media have also reported instances of ICE mistakenly detaining U.S. citizens, using tear gas in ways that endangered infants, and fatally shooting U.S. citizens.
Ongoing Legal Challenges
Several cities, including Hoboken and Jersey City, are currently involved in legal disputes with the federal government over their “sanctuary city” policies. Governor Mikie Sherrill has encouraged New Jersey residents to report ICE activity through a citizen portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should residents do if they encounter ICE agents?
Assemblyman Bhalla urges residents to remain vigilant, lawfully record any incidents with ICE, and to stay home if needed. Residents can also call the Spirit of Liberation hotline at 201-616-2816.
What rights do residents have during an ICE encounter?
Jersey City Mayor Solomon stated residents do not have to open their door without a warrant signed by a judge, have the right to remain silent, have the right to a lawyer, and should not sign anything they do not understand.
Are Jersey City and Hoboken facing legal challenges related to immigration policies?
Yes, several cities with immigrant protections in place, including Hoboken and Jersey City, are being sued by the federal government.
As ICE continues operations in New Jersey, how might the ongoing legal battles between the state and federal government shape future enforcement actions?
