Trump administration rejects auto-activation for ICE body cameras
Why it matters: The GAO pushed the change after scrutiny of immigration enforcement tactics and two fatal shootings in Minneapolis.
The Trump administration rejected a recommendation from the Government Accountability Office that ICE automatically trigger body-worn cameras when officers draw weapons or activate vehicle sirens. In a report released Oct. 14, the GAO said Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection should strengthen camera program management and add controls to ensure recording. The Department of Homeland Security objected, arguing automatic activation could create privacy and operational risks, including accidental recording of informants, victims and bystanders in restricted areas. DHS said ICE has obtained enough devices for all officers and agents, but training to deploy them remains underway.