Stop Masked ICE Agents from Operating Like Kidnappers

End Masked and Unmarked ICE Arrests I urge you to take immediate action to prohibit ICE agents from conducting arrests in public spaces—such as on streets or in courthouses—without clearly identifying themselves. In multiple states, including Massachusetts, New York, and California, ICE agents have recently detained individuals while wearing masks and without displaying visible agency ID. These actions create dangerous confusion and resemble tactics used by kidnappers, not legitimate law enforcement officers. Documented Incidents Show a Disturbing Pattern One particularly troubling case occurred in Somerville, MA, where Turkish student Rumeysa Ozturk was reportedly seized on the street by masked ICE agents who offered no identification until after detaining her. Eyewitnesses feared it was an abduction. This is not an isolated event—similar masked arrests have taken place near schools, courthouses, and public transit hubs. Agents often operate in plainclothes, use unmarked vehicles, and provide no clear indication they are acting with lawful authority. Public Trust and Safety Are at Risk The use of masks and lack of visible identification undermines public trust, endangers bystanders, and violates core principles of due process. No one should be forced to guess whether the person confronting them is a legitimate federal agent or an impersonator. These tactics create a climate of fear and suspicion that corrodes the legitimacy of law enforcement and the safety of our communities. Congress Must Establish Limits on Disguised Enforcement Congress must act. Please support legislation requiring ICE agents engaged in civil enforcement to wear clear identification or uniforms, and to display their name and agency. Masking and unmarked clothing should be prohibited in all but narrowly defined national security cases with court authorization.