Documenting ICE: A Guide to Filming Federal Agents Safely

The Risks and Responsibilities of Recording Federal Agents

In an era of heightened tensions surrounding immigration enforcement, documenting the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents has become both a crucial and perilous endeavor. The recent tragedies involving individuals like Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti emphasize the profound risks faced by those merely seeking to observe and record federal activities.

“Alex Pretti was killed in part because he was filming ICE, which is an absolute travesty.” - Trevor Timm, Freedom of the Press Foundation

While video documentation can serve as a powerful tool for accountability, it exposes individuals to potential threats, even violence, as federal agents often respond aggressively to being filmed. As we navigate this complex landscape, it is imperative to equip ourselves with knowledge and strategies for safely documenting these events.

The Paradox of Resistance and Surveillance

As activists and ordinary citizens grapple with the reality of observing ICE's operations, they face a troubling paradox: the act of recording can both protect and endanger. Federal policies have increasingly framed documentation as a potential threat, with DHS officials labeling it as 'doxing'—an alarming assertion that blurs the lines between lawful observation and criminal activity.

Despite these threats, the importance of video as a means of holding authorities accountable cannot be understated. With smartphones in nearly every pocket, the ability to capture and share evidence of federal actions provides critical transparency.

Preparing to Film: Essential Guidelines

Engaging in the act of filming ICE agents requires preparedness. One way to minimize risks is to use alternative or burner phones when documenting. These devices can help protect your identity and privacy, ensuring that your personal data isn't compromising.

• Turn Off Biometrics: Always disable Face ID and fingerprint recognition on your primary device before heading out.
• Consider Connectivity Risks: Understand that ICE has extensive surveillance methods, which can pose risks to your device's data integrity.
• Use Landscape Orientation: Filming horizontally captures more context and helps validate your footage.

During the Recording: Staying Safe

When you observe actions by ICE or CBP agents, consider the following:

1. Start Recording Early: Capture as much footage as possible. Continuous recording is less prone to claims of manipulation.
2. Document Identification: Focus on capturing visible badges and vehicles to increase accountability.
3. Maintain Distance: If agents request you to step back, comply to mitigate potential escalation.

“If they're saying to step back, step back, so that they don't say that you're interfering.” - Jackie Zammuto, Witness

After Filming: Sharing Your Evidence Safely

The impulse to quickly share powerful videos can be tempting but doing so without caution can endanger individuals captured in the footage. Instead of immediate public postings, consider:

• Blurring Faces: This reduces the risk of retaliatory actions against subjects in your video.
• Backup Footage: Use secure cloud services for storage and share recordings with civil rights organizations or lawyers.

In Courts: Legal Protections and Advocacy

As legal battles surrounding ICE's actions progress, well-documented footage can play a crucial role. Groups like the ACLU are actively participating in litigation against ICE, relying on video evidence in their advocacy.

“Video has the power to expose the tactics that ICE and authorities are using against people.” - Jackie Zammuto

Documenting federal activity requires not only courage but also a strategic approach to ensure safety and effectiveness. As we prepare to engage in this challenging yet essential duty, we must remain committed to transparency and accountability. Our documentation can protect individuals' rights and serve as a powerful check on governmental authority.