Massachusetts officials have introduced an online portal designed for the public to report alleged misconduct by federal immigration agents, specifically those from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This initiative aims to enhance transparency and accountability among federal agents operating within the state, according to Governor Maura Healey.
Governor Healey stated, “This new reporting portal will help us gather information, support residents, and ensure federal agents operating in our state are following the law.” The portal went live on March 6, 2025, and allows users to upload photos and videos, as well as provide detailed accounts of incidents involving ICE agents.
The online form requires users to submit their name and email address. Additionally, participants must consent to the potential use of their information in legal proceedings or in public reports published by the governor and the state’s attorney general. Attorney General Andrea Campbell criticized ICE for its “aggressive and reckless tactics that spread fear and chaos in our communities,” encouraging residents to utilize this reporting tool if they observe concerning activities by ICE.
This move comes amid ongoing tensions between state officials and federal immigration authorities. Governor Healey recently demanded comprehensive data from ICE regarding every individual detained in Massachusetts since January 2025. This includes identifying information, the legal basis for each arrest, detention locations, and upcoming hearing dates.
In response to the new portal, a spokesperson for ICE highlighted that the agency holds its officers to “the highest professional standard” and emphasized that they receive ongoing training. The spokesperson also mentioned that politicians should reflect on their own roles in fostering negative perceptions of law enforcement rather than attributing blame solely to federal agents.
Local law enforcement agencies have been criticized by ICE for not fully cooperating during immigration arrests. However, both Governor Healey and Boston Mayor Michelle Wu contend that local police do assist in criminal matters. Massachusetts maintains a 287 agreement with ICE, which allows for cooperation in certain immigration enforcement activities.
Records obtained by WBUR reveal that the state has released 581 individuals to immigration authorities between 2020 and January 2026. Support for the new reporting portal comes from several district attorneys in the state, including those from Northwestern and Berkshire counties. Suffolk County District Attorney Kevin Hayden emphasized that many ICE tactics interfere with his office’s ability to ensure justice for victims, stating, “I encourage our federal partners to work with, not against, state and local law enforcement and to carry out their duties in a lawful, transparent and non-violent manner.”
Concerns about the reporting portal’s requirement for personal information were expressed by Jillian Phillips, an advocate for immigrants with the LUCE network based in Worcester. She voiced apprehension about potential repercussions if the data were accessed by federal agents, stating, “If I report to the state and give my name and email, and the feds get it and come after me, that’s a problem.”
As Massachusetts continues to navigate the complexities of immigration enforcement, the introduction of this reporting portal marks a significant step towards fostering accountability and addressing community concerns.
