Advocates Slam NYPD’s Brutal Tactics at Anti-ICE Protest

UPDATE: Immigrant advocates and local politicians are fiercely condemning the NYPD for its violent response to an anti-ICE protest in Chinatown on November 29. The backlash follows a chaotic demonstration where 19 protesters were arrested amid accusations of police brutality.

Just 24 hours after the protest, advocates gathered outside the garage on Howard and Centre Streets to voice their outrage. Murad Awawdeh, head of the New York Immigration Coalition, claimed that police used excessive force, stating, “New Yorkers were confronted by the NYPD, and then they were brutalized.” He highlighted instances of protesters being maced and violently thrown to the ground.

Local politicians joined the outcry, demanding that Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg drop all charges against those arrested. City Comptroller Brad Lander accused the NYPD of violating local sanctuary laws by facilitating ICE operations. “When you see SRG agents clearing the street for trucks, that’s facilitating ICE deportations. It is not the job of the NYPD to facilitate the deportations of our neighbors,” Lander charged.

Public Advocate Jumaane Williams also spoke out, urging New Yorkers to continue standing against federal agents, while emphasizing the need for nonviolent actions. “We will not apologize for stepping up and protecting one another,” he said, praising those who faced off against ICE agents.

The protest turned violent as police were seen tackling individuals and using batons, with one sergeant reportedly deploying pepper spray that affected protesters and journalists alike. Reports indicate that of the 19 people taken into custody, 11 were officially arrested, with one individual facing felony assault charges after allegedly throwing a wooden pallet at an officer.

While the NYPD has not yet responded to the accusations, a spokesperson denied any coordination with federal agents, asserting, “The NYPD was not in coordination with today’s federal operation and does not conduct civil immigration enforcement, period.”

Activist Jay Walker criticized the lack of a response from city officials, saying, “New Yorkers do not feel safe right now. They are living in fear.” He added that the real terror comes from ICE, not the peaceful protesters advocating for human rights.

As tensions rise, the situation remains fluid with advocates and officials demanding accountability from law enforcement. The call for justice and the protection of immigrant rights continues to resonate throughout the city.

The NYC community is left to wonder: what will happen next? The growing backlash against police tactics could lead to significant changes in policy, and observers are urged to stay tuned for further developments.