ICE Agents Say They Do Not Need a Judicial Warrant

Immigration operation sparks confrontation

Agents claim no warrant is needed

Local officials demand explanations

An immigration operation at transit stations in New Jersey triggered a tense exchange between local authorities and federal agents after an officer stated that a judicial warrant was not necessary to make arrests.

The video that captured the confrontation

Jake Ephros via Storyful. ICE Agents Judicial Warrant Requirement

A Jersey City councilmember, Jake Ephros, recorded an exchange with federal agents carrying out immigration operations on the morning of Sunday, February 1, in areas of Hoboken and Jersey City.

The footage was filmed at the Ninth Street–Congress Street station.

In the video, several officials who identified themselves as agents of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) are seen entering an elevator and arresting a man.

When Ephros asked whether they had a judicial warrant, one of the agents responded bluntly.

“We don’t need a warrant, brother. Get that out of your head,” the officer is heard saying, adding that nothing said at the scene would stop them from doing their job.

The statement immediately drew criticism and raised questions about the ICE agents judicial warrant requirement during such operations.

Community reaction

Jake Ephros via Storyful – ICE Agents Judicial Warrant Requirement

Another video recorded at the same location shows several residents confronting and questioning the agents about the operation.

The images reflect an atmosphere of tension and confusion among those present, many of whom demanded explanations regarding the detentions.

So far, officials have not released information on how many people were arrested or under what specific circumstances the actions were carried out.

Local government response to the immigration operation

Jake Ephros via Storyful – ICE Agents Judicial Warrant Requirement

Hoboken Mayor Emily Jabbour issued a statement confirming that she received reports about the presence of immigration agents in the city.

She said that she and a city councilmember went directly to the area near the Ninth Street light rail station.

According to the mayor, multiple witnesses reported seeing unmarked vehicles and individuals being detained both inside the train and in areas surrounding the station.

Jabbour stated that, as of now, there is no additional information regarding the full scope of the operation.

In her message, she emphasized that Hoboken is a fair and welcoming community and reaffirmed the local government’s commitment to supporting all residents, regardless of their origin or immigration status.

The episode leaves open serious questions about the limits of federal immigration operations and the role of local authorities when confronting actions tied to the ICE agents warrant requirement.

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