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ICE Rejects Automatic Activation of Body-Worn Cameras Amid Calls for Greater Transparency
By Drooid · · How we work
ICE Rejects Automatic Activation of Body Cameras
The Government Accountability Office released a report recommending that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) adopt “automated camera activation” that would turn on body-worn cameras when an officer draws a weapon or activates a siren.
Context: Prior Shootings and GAO Findings
The recommendation follows a series of high-profile shootings involving ICE agents. In January, two U.S. citizens—Renee Good and Alex Pretti—were killed during immigration operations in Minneapolis. The New York Times estimated that ICE agents had opened fire on at least 25 people since the start of President Donald Trump’s second term, while a CBS News review counted at least 30 shootings, nine fatalities and 13 injuries.The GAO report, covering February 2025 through September 2026, noted that many officers were uncertain when to activate cameras, leading to gaps in footage during “unexpected and unplanned incidents.”
Agency Response and Implementation Status
DHS confirmed that all ICE offices received body-worn cameras as of August 5, but training on proper use was still ongoing and expected to finish “soon.”The agency maintains that cameras must be turned on at the start of pre-planned enforcement activities and that automatic activation could compromise privacy.
Criticism from Advocates and Congressional Action
Activists argue that improved recording procedures could clarify disputed incidents, such as the October 8 shooting of Oscar Belgal in New York City, where ICE claimed the driver was “going towards officers.” Democratic members of Congress, who requested the GAO review, have delayed funding for the Department of Homeland Security until “significant changes” reduce excessive-force incidents.
Conflicting Data on ICE Shootings
Reports differ on the total number of ICE-involved shootings. The New York Times cites at least 25 incidents, whereas CBS News reports at least 30, with nine deaths and 13 injuries. Both figures are attributed to their respective outlets and highlight the lack of a unified accounting of force-related events.