Concerns Raised Over ICE's Use of Force and Accountability Measures
Jan, 15 2026
High-ranking officials, including President Trump and Vice President JD Vance, defended the actions of the agents involved, claiming without evidence that Good had attacked the agent. However, research indicates that there is no comprehensive database documenting the use of force by ICE agents, complicating efforts to understand the full scope of these incidents. Gender-based violence researchers have noted that the visibility of these violent encounters is linked to broader policies that have historically marginalized women and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Data from the Prison Policy Initiative shows a significant rise in the percentage of women experiencing police use of force over the years, with Indigenous and Black women facing disproportionately high risks. Reports suggest that the number of women involved in ICE arrests has increased since the end of the Obama administration, particularly among women of color, including Latinas.
Concerns about ICE's operations have also been raised regarding potential violations of the Fourth Amendment, which protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures. During a recent press briefing, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem asserted that ICE operates within the law, despite numerous reports and eyewitness accounts documenting aggressive behavior by agents, including forcibly entering homes without judicial authorization.
Representative Ilhan Omar expressed alarm over the pervasive fear experienced by residents due to ICE's presence, highlighting that agents reportedly target individuals based on appearance or ethnicity. The American Civil Liberties Union has filed a class-action lawsuit against the Trump administration, alleging violations related to racial profiling and unlawful detentions.
Public opinion polls indicate a majority of Americans disapprove of ICE's actions, particularly regarding the shooting of Renee Good. A Quinnipiac University poll found that 53% of registered voters believe the shooting was unjustified, with disapproval notably higher among Democrats. A CNN poll corroborated these findings, revealing that 56% of respondents view the shooting as an inappropriate use of force and that 51% believe it highlights systemic issues within ICE's operational framework.
Concerns regarding the treatment of protesters against deportations are also prevalent, with many Americans worried about potential crackdowns on demonstrations. Trust in the federal government to conduct a fair investigation into Good's shooting is low, with 62% of respondents expressing limited or no trust. These findings reflect a growing skepticism towards ICE and the current administration's immigration policies, as public awareness of ICE's violent actions continues to rise, prompting protests and calls for accountability.