A mobile application that alerts users to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities is raising concerns about public safety and enforcement risks.
CNN reported on June 30 that over 20,000 people are using the app called ICE Block, which shares real-time information about ICE agents’ movements. Many users are residents of Los Angeles, where recent large-scale undocumented immigrant raids occurred.
The app functions as an alert system, displaying ICE agent locations and police vehicle movements to users. There are concerns that the app creates fear, agitates citizens, and could endanger ICE officers.
Todd Lyons, acting director of ICE, urged people to refrain from using the app, stating, “This app essentially targets federal law enforcement officers,” adding that assaults against ICE agents have increased by 500%.
The app was developed by Joshua Aaron, a game developer. In an interview with CNN, Aaron said, “I created this app as a community service,” emphasizing that it is intended only to provide information and alerts, not to promote violence or obstruct law enforcement activities.
BY YEONGCHAE SONG [song.yeongchae@koreadaily.com]
