News Summary
Activists from Unidad Latina en Accion held a protest outside the Hamden Police Department seeking answers about the local police’s role in a recent ICE raid. The raid, which took place at a carwash, led to the detention of eight individuals and has sparked concerns among community members about potential impacts on families and students. The protest highlighted issues of communication and adherence to the ‘Welcoming City’ ordinance, while local officials defended their actions amid growing calls for transparency and accountability.
Activists Call for Transparency After ICE Raid in Hamden
Activists from Unidad Latina en Accion (ULA) gathered outside the Hamden Police Department in a spirited demonstration, seeking answers about the police’s involvement during a recent ICE raid. With chants echoing through the streets, like “Justice! When do we want it? Now!”, the protesters voiced their concerns regarding the raid’s impact on students and families in the community.
What Happened During the Raid?
Last Wednesday, the scene unfolded at the Optimo Carwash on Dixwell Avenue, where federal agents conducted their operation, leading to the detention of eight individuals. As many in the community were left reeling from the news, one protester, Lance Boos, shared the palpable fear felt by his students in New Haven regarding potential immigration enforcement actions. This raid had clearly sent ripples of anxiety through local communities.
Community Concerns: Lack of Notification
Activist John Lugo took the time to address the crowd, raising serious questions about why the Hamden Police did not notify the residents before the raid occurred. His point was that it goes against the town’s “Welcoming City” ordinance, which aims to foster an inclusive environment for all. Local police explained that they had received a courtesy alert from a federal special agent concerning a general investigation, but they were not made aware it was an ICE operation.
Police Response to Community Outcry
Lieutenant Robert Manfield of the Hamden Police clarified that local officers were not involved directly and maintained adherence to Connecticut’s Trust Act, which outlines how local law enforcement should interact with federal immigration agents. A video recorded by a local shop owner captured the moment the federal agents executed the raid, a sight that many community members will not soon forget.
Aftermath of the Raid
Out of the eight individuals detained during the operation, two have since been released while the remaining six continue to face immigration detention. Mayor Lauren Garrett has since emphasized the need for a better state-funded legal defense and bail fund for those caught in the snares of these operations, expressing concern over their wellbeing.
Legal Help for the Detained
In light of the events, Lugo is advocating for immediate legal assistance for the six individuals still in custody, asserting that the town bears some responsibility to step up and help these individuals. This sentiment resonates deeply with many of the protesters.
Support and Opposition During the Protest
The protest attracted mixed reactions from those passing by. Some drivers honked in solidarity while others voiced their disagreement with the protest. This division in public opinion illustrates the complexities surrounding immigration enforcement in the community.
Internal Investigation Underway
In response to the backlash, the Hamden Police plan to conduct an internal investigation to scrutinize their communication and decision-making process related to the ICE operation. They aim to understand how better to inform the public in the future, should such incidents arise.
Local Officials Weigh In
State Representatives Michael DiGiovancarlo and Greg Howard defended the police’s choice not to alert the public prior to the raid, citing concerns over operational security and potential liability issues. The dialogue around these reasons further adds layers to the ongoing discussions about immigration policy and community safety.
Mayor’s Stance on ICE Actions
Mayor Garrett didn’t hold back her feelings about the raid, condemning ICE’s actions as “deplorable” and “disgusting.” As the community grapples with the implications of the raid, calls for transparency and accountability continue to grow stronger.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- NBC Connecticut: Activists Demand Transparency After ICE Raid in Hamden
- Wikipedia: Immigration in the United States
- WFSB: Calls for Transparency After ICE Raid in Hamden
- Google Search: ICE raids in Hamden
- New Haven Register: Hamden ICE Raid Press Conference
- Google Scholar: ICE raids impact on communities
- Greenwich Time: Hamden ICE Raid Press Conference
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Immigration Reform Policy
- Hartford Courant: Advocates Upset Over Lack of Notification Before ICE Raid
- Google News: Hamden ICE raid
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