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Kingston officials have confirmed the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers in the city on Tuesday (February 25). Mayor Steve Noble stated that the exact activities of the ICE officers remain unclear. Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger echoed this uncertainty but emphasized the importance of residents understanding their rights.
The presence of ICE in Kingston comes amid a nationwide crackdown on immigration by President Donald Trump's administration, which returned to power last month. The administration has intensified efforts to enforce immigration laws, leading to increased ICE activity across the country.
According to the Daily Freeman, Kingston officials provided advice to residents in light of the ICE presence, though specific actions taken by the officers were not detailed. Mayor Noble and County Executive Metzger have both been vocal about protecting the rights and dignity of immigrants in the community.
In January, Mayor Noble and New York State Attorney General opposed a U.S. Justice Department order that could lead to criminal charges against local officials who interfere with federal immigration enforcement, as reported by the Daily Freeman. The order is part of the Trump administration's broader immigration policy.
The Ulster Immigrant Defense Network (UIDN), a local organization, has been preparing for increased immigration enforcement under President Trump's administration. According to Hudson Valley One, UIDN has mobilized to provide support and resources to immigrants, including legal assistance and community education on rights.