ICE Could Send Tactical Units To NYC, Other Cities Over Protests: Report

NEW YORK CITY — Following multiple days of protests in New York City against Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids throughout the country, ICE is preparing to send tactical units to the city as well as multiple other Democratic-led cities, according to reports.

The federal law enforcement agency could deploy its Special Response Team (SRT) units to New York City, Philadelphia, Chicago, Seattle and North Virginia, NBC News reported.

The specialized unit is reportedly used for operations which are considered high risk. They were most recently used in Los Angeles, according to the report.

On Wednesday, around 10 people were detained following a protest in Lower Manhattan. The day before, more than 80 people were arrested during a protest that followed a planned demonstration in Foley Square, Patch previously reported.

Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Kaz Daughtry told reporters on Wednesday that the NYPD has demonstrations under control.

"No, the NYPD does not need the National Guards or the Marines. We do appreciate any consideration that are thinking here, but actually we do not need it. I want to say this again," Daughtry said.

On Monday, the NYPD and Mayor Eric Adams said violence of any kind would not be tolerated in the city, as they addressed recent protests in Los Angeles.

I understand that some New Yorkers may be angry, afraid, and ready to express that. New York City will always be a place to peacefully protest, but we will not allow violence and lawlessness," he said.

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the department will protect every person's right to peacefully protest but added that the NYPD does not engage with civil immigration enforcement.

"We will continue to follow the law — but let me crystal clear, we have no tolerance for violence and no tolerance for property damage," she said.