By John Q. Hosedrinker 
A recent ProPublica investigation has revealed over 40 instances of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents using banned chokeholds and other dangerous tactics that can restrict breathing. These actions include placing knees on individuals’ necks and backs, as well as chokeholds, despite agency policy prohibiting such practices. The investigation also found that ICE agents have arrested U.S. citizens, including a 16-year-old, and have yet to face disciplinary measures for these actions. These tactics are occurring across the country and are often recorded by the public.
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ICE Arresting U.S. Citizens, Using Banned Chokeholds: Explosive ProPublica Report
The revelations from the ProPublica report are deeply disturbing, painting a picture of ICE agents operating with a blatant disregard for the law and basic human rights. The core of the issue, highlighted in the report, revolves around the use of banned chokeholds and other potentially lethal tactics by immigration agents, with the added shock of these actions being directed against U.S. citizens.
The details are chilling. ProPublica’s investigation uncovered over 40 instances where agents employed chokeholds and other maneuvers that restrict breathing. These are not isolated incidents; they’re happening across the country, often in plain view of cameras and witnesses. The stories shared, like that of the 16-year-old citizen who felt he was going to die while being choked by an agent, are deeply troubling. The fact that former police officers and immigration officials, when shown videos of these incidents, were appalled and described the agents’ actions as the kind that should lead to immediate firing, underscores the severity of the situation.
Adding insult to injury, these banned tactics have seemingly gone unpunished. A federal ban on chokeholds exists, yet there’s no visible accountability for the officers involved. This lack of consequence sends a clear message about the agency’s priorities and the value it places on human life. The report goes on to discuss the arrests, with at least 170 U.S. citizens reportedly apprehended by immigration agents, compounding the problem, creating the image of a force that is overstepping its boundaries and operating without adequate oversight.
This isn’t just about the use of chokeholds; it’s about the broader culture within ICE. The aggressive tactics, the disregard for due process, and the apparent lack of concern for the well-being of those they are detaining points to a deeper issue. The report also highlights additional disturbing actions, such as agents confiscating and selling citizens’ phones.
It raises serious questions about training, oversight, and the very mission of ICE. If agents are willing to use banned tactics against U.S. citizens and then seemingly face no repercussions, what does that say about the standards to which they are held? What are the underlying causes of this behavior? Is it a matter of inadequate training, poor leadership, or a systemic problem where accountability is simply not a priority?
The ProPublica report also calls into question the role of the media in bringing these events to light. The lack of broader coverage of these incidents can lead to a state of complacency, which allows abuses to continue. The media is responsible for informing the public about these issues. This is a responsibility that must be taken seriously, particularly when dealing with matters of human rights and abuse of power.
The report also touches on the potential impact of political rhetoric and the role it plays in normalizing such actions. When agencies are perceived as being above the law or as tools to be used against those the government dislikes, accountability often declines. This sets a dangerous precedent, and can lead to even more severe abuses.
The impact of these events on families is devastating. The separation of families, the fear and trauma experienced by those targeted, and the lasting psychological damage are all very real. And the lack of justice for the victims only adds to the pain.
The ProPublica report serves as a wake-up call, demanding that we confront these issues head-on. The continued use of these tactics needs to be addressed with immediate action. There needs to be a serious, transparent investigation into these matters. Those responsible for the abuses must be held accountable. And steps must be taken to ensure that such violations never happen again. This includes comprehensive training for agents, improved oversight, and an unwavering commitment to upholding the rights of all individuals.