ICE Changes Tactics, Detains Families at 26 Federal Plaza

UPDATE: In a significant shift in tactics, ICE agents are now detaining entire families for questioning at 26 Federal Plaza in New York City. This change comes in the wake of a controversial raid earlier this week on Canal Street, which has left local communities in fear and confusion.

Reports from October 23, 2023, indicate that masked agents have adopted a more stealthy approach, rounding up families as they leave the immigration court. Witnesses describe chaotic scenes where families are taken into custody without any physical contact. In one incident, a Russian man was stopped while exiting a courtroom with his wife and children. Although he was initially told they would not be detained, another agent quickly intervened, stating, “We need to ask you some questions.” The family’s fate remains uncertain.

This alarming trend has intensified the atmosphere of dread within Lower Manhattan’s immigration court. Court observer Peter, who tracks ICE detentions, expressed grave concerns: “Detaining entire families, even temporarily, represents a serious escalation of tactics.” He further noted that when families vanish without any resources or support, it exacerbates their plight.

The urgency of the situation escalated as Congressman Dan Goldman made an unexpected visit to the immigration court on the same day. He confronted masked agents, demanding to see their identification and the organization they represented. The environment inside the court was tense, with families pouring out after hearings, only to be met by waiting agents. In one particularly gripping moment, a young father holding his child was stopped, prompting his wife to scream for mercy as they faced the agents. Fortunately, the agents ultimately released him, allowing the family to escape into the elevator area.

Photographers captured the desperation as families rushed for elevators, pushing and shoving to get away from the agents. The scene resembled a frantic exodus as families sought safety, underscoring the emotional toll of these detentions.

On October 27, 2023, City Comptroller Brad Lander also made a surprise visit to the court, aiming to keep the pressure on ICE and support those affected by these tactics. The stacking of political pressure is seen as crucial in addressing the ongoing concern over family detentions.

With the situation evolving rapidly, the immediate future remains uncertain for families facing ICE questioning. Advocates and officials are calling for transparency and accountability as these new detainment strategies unfold.

As public outcry grows, experts urge heightened awareness and community support. The emotional impact on families is profound, with many left in fear and anguish over their uncertain futures. The community is mobilizing to resist these tactics, and the situation at 26 Federal Plaza is becoming a focal point for those advocating for immigrant rights.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.