Multiple ICE agents wearing vests and carrying rifles detained a painter after targeting a group of men near a Sunoco gas station on Route 23A, according to Columbia County Sanctuary Movement, a nonprofit that provides holistic services to immigrants in upstate New York.
The operation, which the immigrant-support group called a raid, took place shortly before 8 a.m. on Wednesday. Children on a nearby school bus witnessed the incident, which the group said was traumatic for them. The agents’ vehicle was an unmarked dark blue Dodge Durango.
Federal immigration authorities didn’t confirm the operation.
Village Mayor Dr. Lee McGunnigle and Hunter Town Supervisor Sean Mahoney said they had no direct knowledge of the incident. Hunter-Tannersville Central School District Superintendent Dr. Vincent Butera also said he hadn’t confirmed that it took place and that he was investigating.
Columbia County Sanctuary operates a hotline to report immigration enforcement activity and provides legal and community support and education to immigrants across the Hudson Valley. The group also circulates guidance reminding residents of their rights, including the right to remain silent and the right not to open the door without a warrant.
This is a developing story.
Noah Eckstein is the editor-in-chief of The Overlook. Send correspondence to noah@theoverlooknews.com.