New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill announced Wednesday that the state will create a centralized database allowing residents to upload videos and images of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity, a move that could significantly impact how immigration enforcement is monitored across the state.

Speaking publicly about the initiative, Sherrill encouraged residents to document what they witness in their communities. “If you see an ICE agent in the street, get your phone out,” the governor said, emphasizing transparency and public accountability.

What the ICE Video Database Will Do

According to the governor’s office, the new system will allow New Jersey residents to submit cellphone video, photographs, and related information when they observe ICE operations. The database will be managed by the state and used to track and review enforcement activity.

State officials say the portal is intended to:

• Increase transparency around federal immigration operations
• Help ensure enforcement activity complies with the law
• Provide communities with awareness of ICE presence

Officials have not yet released a launch date or technical details, but additional guidance is expected in the coming weeks.

Why This Matters for New Jersey

The announcement comes amid growing national attention on immigration enforcement after several recent incidents involving federal agents were captured on video and widely circulated online. Sherrill cited these events as examples of why documentation matters.

New Jersey has one of the largest immigrant populations in the United States, with an estimated nearly half a million undocumented residents living throughout the state. Reports of ICE activity in communities such as Bridgeton and Princeton have raised concerns among residents and advocacy groups.

State Policy and Federal Enforcement

Governor Sherrill stated that her administration does not support ICE conducting operations from state-owned property and reiterated New Jersey’s commitment to limiting cooperation with federal immigration enforcement where permitted by law.

While immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility, state officials note that New Jersey has authority over how it collects information, communicates with residents, and protects civil liberties.

Support and Criticism

Immigrant rights advocates praised the proposal, calling it a step toward accountability and community empowerment. Supporters argue that public documentation can help deter misconduct and provide clarity during enforcement actions.

Critics, however, warn that encouraging residents to record ICE operations could create safety risks or interfere with law enforcement. Some legal experts have also questioned how submissions will be verified and how personal data will be safeguarded.

What Residents Can Expect Next

The governor’s office says the state will release public guidance on how to safely and legally document ICE activity, as well as educational materials outlining residents’ rights during encounters with federal agents.

As Governor Sherrill begins implementing her early policy agenda, the ICE video upload database signals a clear approach to immigration oversight focused on visibility, documentation, and transparency.

More information on the portal’s rollout is expected soon.

Sources

Philadelphia Inquirer – https://www.inquirer.com

New Jersey Globe – https://newjerseyglobe.com

NJ 101.5 – https://nj1015.com