Montco Activists Aim To Protect Residents From ICE: 'When In Doubt, Record'

NORRISTOWN, PA — The killing of Alex Pretti in Minnesota by ICE officers over the weekend has ignited long-simmering anxieties around the country, including in immigrant-heavy communities in Montgomery County.

Now, after the latest fatality, activists want to ensure that local residents are able to identify potential ICE agents and are prepared in case of an encounter.

"ICE is already here in Montco," Montco Community Watch, a leading advocacy organization, shared recently in an effort to galvanize support.

While aggressive immigration enforcement activities have been a hallmark of the new Trump administration, numerous instances have led to injuries and deaths of bystanders and detainees. Many individuals who are American citizens have been wrongfully detained, activists add.

Montco Community Watch, along with similar other organizations based in communities like West Norriton, Pottstown, Norristown, and elsewhere, often posts warnings on its social media channels about ICE agent sightings.

"When in doubt (about a potential ICE agent sighting), record," they urge residents. It's a sentiment repeatedly refrained by activists around the country as one of the best methods to bring daylight to what they call unconstitutional practices.

"If you suspect ICE, you have the right to film and take photos as long as you do not interfere," the group adds.

Advocates say that residents can identify and distinguish agents by face coverings, as regular police do not wear masks.

They also often wear vests that are unmarked or with vague acronyms, like "Police ICE" or "Police." Otherwise they will be in plain clothes, sometimes jeans, sneakers, and a t-shirt, or cargo pants and boots.

Key information for witnesses to note is the size of the contingent of agents, what they're doing, their location, their uniforms, the words on their vests, the time and date, and any equipment like cars or trucks.

Residents are urged to report ICE sightings to the community tip line at 267-279-9205.