Created back in 2003 under the Bush Administration, Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) managed by the Department of Homeland Security, is tasked with legally removing illegal immigrants from the United States. To arrest someone they suspect as being illegal, they need substantial evidence and a warrant for an arrest. They have complete jurisdiction of American soil, meaning they can travel from state to state to make an arrest. ICE’s sole purpose is to enforce federal immigration laws rather than keeping local peace – like managing traffic laws.
On Wednesday, January 7th, 2026, Renee Good, 37, an American woman from Minneapolis, was shot three times in the face and killed by ICE agent Jonathan Ross.
Government leaders claim Ross acted in self-defense, alleging Good intentionally ran him over with her vehicle. However eyewitness testimonies and social media videos have challenged that account. Local and national leaders remain divided on the events: Conservative defense officials support the government’s justification of the shooting, as seen in the Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem’s account of the incident, “The vehicle rammings are domestic acts of terrorism,” while Minnesota authorities and civil right supporters advocate for justice for Good.
The government is tasked with making a difficult decision: how to protect the people. According to Glen Rock High School APUSH teacher Ms. Walter, each presidential administrations have the choice between prioritizing citizens freedoms or safeties.
““The more freedoms you have, the less safeties you have, and the more safeties you have, the less freedom… [in this world] safety is outweighing the freedoms.”
One of those is the right to privacy. The fourth amendment of the United States Constitution states, “The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated…”
Agencies like ICE must obtain warrants, and have probable cause, to search someone they believe to be an illegal immigrant. According to GRHS AP United States Government and Politics teacher Mr. Pohlman, “I think the biggest issue with the fourth amendment would be the right to privacy and a violation of [rights]…these raids could be considered unreasonable searches and seizures.” Questions now remain about whether Good’s rights were violated and whether federal officers are being held to the same constitutional standards as local law enforcement.
This incident continues to fuel debates over the power of federal agents and the rules meant to protect civilians, especially with the recent shooting on January 24th of Alex Pretti. For many, these cases stand as another moment of abuse of power and the standards ICE agents are held to. As details emerge and perspectives remain divided, the situation reflects ongoing nation uncertainty about how immigration policy should be carried out.
In the event an ICE agent approaches you or a family member, it is important you know your rights. They are not optional – they are guaranteed. The Constitution applies to everyone. To learn more about ICE and your rights, go to immigrantjustice.org.
