New Jersey Congressman Seeks Answers After ICE Activity Reported Outside Union City Church
On Sunday morning, federal immigration enforcement outside a church in Union City, New Jersey, garnered notice and a congressional response.
Two individuals were arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement outside a Union City church on 19th Street, according to public accounts. The morning incident was filmed from a nearby home.
According to social media footage, multiple uniformed ICE agents detained two 20-something guys in the street. The tape description stated that many vehicles arrived and that the men were caught while walking toward the chapel.
Rep. Rob Menendez, of New Jersey’s 8th Congressional District, commented on X. He acknowledged that his agency is working with local officials and community members to investigate “concerning reports” of ICE activities outside a Union City church. He noted that the data would inform next moves.
Our 8th District has a diverse population, including Union City. In the 2020 Census, over 80% of Union City citizens identified as Hispanic, reflecting the community’s substantial Latino population.
Federal immigration authorities have not stated more about the enforcement activity. Post-incident ICE comments were delayed. Union City officials were unavailable for comment.
ICE enforces federal immigration laws nationwide under the Department of Homeland Security. People suspected of breaching immigration laws might be arrested in public. ICE has not commented on the detentions, thus the details are unknown.
Public curiosity was piqued by the enforcement operations outside a church. Residents are sensitive to law enforcement around religious organizations, thus any presence can cause alarm.
Only video footage and elected official remarks are available at this point. Congressman Menendez’s office is monitoring the matter and may learn more after coordinating with local and federal agencies.
Union City and New Jersey citizens are seeking federal clarity on the detentions’ purpose and the detainees’ legal status.
As government sources verify further details, this report will be updated.
Sources:
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Office of U.S. Rep. Rob Menendez
U.S. Census Bureau
