California launched a portal allowing state residents to upload information about reported “misconduct” carried out by federal agents.
The online portal, announced by Governor Gavin Newsom (D) and Attorney General Rob Bonta aims to “assist members of the public in sharing information with the California Department of Justice regarding potentially unlawful activity by federal agents and officers across the state,” the governor’s press office wrote in a social media statement. “Federal agents have broad authority to enforce federal laws, including federal immigration laws, but they must do so lawfully.”
“The portal, which allows Californians to submit video and photos, will help the California Department of Justice create a record of potential unlawful conduct by federal agents, and inform possible legal actions the state may take to protect Californians’ rights,” the post added.
According to the reporting portal, “potentially unlawful activity” includes “use of excessive force, unlawful searches or arrests, wrongful detentions, interference with voting, or other civil-rights violations.”
“We’re not going to stand by while anyone — including federal agents — abuses their authority in California,” Newsom said in a statement. “This new portal gives Californians an easy and safe way to speak up, share what they see, and help us hold people accountable. No one is above the law.”
New York unveiled a similar reporting portal in October. “Every New Yorker has the right to live without fear or intimidation,” New York Attorney General Letitia James said at the time. “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.”
The submission portal asks for the user’s information and whether they were physically present during the incident. It further asks if they made a complaint regarding the incident to other agencies or a court and if the individual has taken legal action on the matter.
