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Immigration Advocates Warn of Possible ICE Presence in New Bedford
Local immigrant rights group reports sightings of federal agents in downtown area
Published on Feb. 5, 2026
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The local branch of a statewide immigrant advocacy group, LUCE New Bedford, has been reporting sightings of what they believe to be ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents in the downtown area of New Bedford, Massachusetts on February 4 and January 30. The group operates a hotline for people to call when they see individuals they suspect to be ICE agents. However, the New Bedford Police Department has stated that they have not been notified of any ICE activity in the area.
Why it matters
The reports of potential ICE presence in New Bedford have raised concerns within the immigrant community, as the actions of federal immigration enforcement can have significant impacts on families and individuals. The advocacy group's warnings aim to keep the community informed and prepared to respond if needed.
The details
LUCE New Bedford, a local branch of the statewide LUCE Immigrant Justice Network, has been posting on social media about sightings of what they believe to be ICE agents in downtown New Bedford. The group operates a hotline for community members to report such sightings. However, the New Bedford Police Department has stated that they have not been notified of any ICE activity in the area.
- On February 4, LUCE New Bedford reported seeing federal agents in downtown New Bedford.
- On January 30, LUCE New Bedford also reported seeing federal agents in downtown New Bedford.
The players
LUCE New Bedford
The local branch of a statewide immigrant advocacy group, LUCE Immigrant Justice Network, that reports sightings of what they believe to be ICE agents and operates a hotline for community members to call.
Centro Comunitario de Trabajadores
A New Bedford-based immigrant support organization whose executive director, Adrian Ventura, is aware of the LUCE New Bedford postings but could not confirm the reports.
Holly Huntoon
The New Bedford Police media relations specialist who stated that the police department has not been notified of any ICE activity in the area.
What they’re saying
“ICE has not contacted our department and we were not notified of any activity in the area.”
— Holly Huntoon, New Bedford Police media relations specialist (southcoasttoday.com)
The takeaway
The reports of potential ICE presence in New Bedford highlight the ongoing concerns and tensions within the immigrant community regarding federal immigration enforcement actions. The advocacy group's efforts to keep the community informed and prepared to respond demonstrate the importance of grassroots organizations in supporting and protecting vulnerable populations.
