Residents of the US state of California can now report suspected misconduct by federal officials via an online portal.
Dec 4, 2025, 4:26 amDec 4, 2025, 4:26 am
California Attorney General Rob Bonta justified the move with growing uncertainty. “From unmarked, military-looking vehicles to arrests more reminiscent of kidnappings, the people of California are rightly concerned that federal agents may be exceeding their authority,” Bonta said.
Gavin Newsom is one of Donald Trump’s loudest critics in the USA.Image: keystone
Governor Gavin Newsom said the portal “provides a simple and secure way to speak out, share observations and help us hold those responsible accountable.” The officials’ actions at the behest of US President Donald Trump demonstrate “a blatant disregard for constitutional procedures,” it said in a statement. Entire communities would be put in fear, people would be traumatized and public safety would be endangered.
Witnesses can upload photos and videos
The offer is aimed at people who may have witnessed unlawful activity by ICE, Border Patrol or National Guard officers. Video and photo recordings can also be uploaded using the form. At the same time, the Public Prosecutor’s Office points out that a complaint does not automatically result in measures.
Criticism of the actions of federal authorities in the wake of Trump’s rigorous migration policy is not only in California. Video recordings show ICE officers, some of whom appear masked during raids, arrest people and transport them away in unmarked vehicles. It is often unclear whether those arrested are simply people without valid immigration status – or dangerous criminals, as the Trump administration portrays them. It is also repeatedly reported that US citizens have been mistakenly arrested during such operations. (sda/dpa)