ICE Officers Could Face Jail Time Under Michigan Bill to Ban Masked Police

Law enforcement officers who attempt to conceal their face or identity while on the job in Michigan could face jail time under a bill introduced by state House Democrats.

The bill, unveiled Thursday, July 24, targets Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which has become increasingly known for using plainclothed or masked officers during immigration raids and operations to hinder identification.

Trump administration officials say this practice is needed to safeguard ICE officers and their families from being harassed or threatened in public and online after the officer’s identity is uncovered, according to the Associated Press.

However, Michigan House Democrats contend these “secret police” practices generate fear, remove accountability and create an unnecessary risk for the community and other law enforcement.

Bill sponsor state Rep. Betsy Coffia, D-Traverse City, said “justice needs no masks.”

“For the average person, these incidents look like violent kidnappings,” Coffia said. {snip}

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Coffia’s bill is similar to legislation introduced in the U.S. Senate earlier this month by Democratic Sen. Elissa Slotkin. That legislation would prohibit immigration enforcement officers, including ICE, Border Patrol and others, from wearing non-medical face coverings and require they display identification of their agency and name or badge number.

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Violating the proposed law would be a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a fine up to $1,000.

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Officers would also be allowed to wear a mask to prevent transmission of airborne diseases, to protect themselves from airborne toxins and to protect themselves from harm while in high-risk situations, including shootouts, standoffs, hostage or terrorist situations and more.

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