Questioning of Student Draws Federal and Local Scrutiny
A New Jersey community is demanding answers after a high school student was questioned by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on his way to school, an incident that has drawn sharp criticism from local officials and residents.
George Castillo, who identifies as 19 years old, told CBS News New York that ICE agents approached him while he waited for a friend to walk to school. According to Castillo, the agents asked him if he was American during the encounter.
Gloria Estrada, a university student and neighbor of Castillo, recorded video of the interaction. She stated she began recording because she felt scared but believed it was wrong for agents to stereotype Castillo for looking Hispanic.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials have disputed the characterization of the event as involving a minor. DHS stated that the individual in question was an adult and was being questioned during an investigation.
In a statement regarding the encounter, DHS described the interaction as part of a targeted operation. The agency noted that the operation resulted in the arrest of "nine illegal aliens with criminal histories, including assault and abuse of a child."
DHS also addressed reports claiming Castillo was a minor, adding that allegations that ICE questioned minors or targeted schools are false.
Local Officials Condemn Tactics and Fear
Democratic state Assemblymember Gabriel Rodriguez said he wants ICE out of the community regardless of whether the individual involved was a minor. Rodriguez noted that the image of masked agents surrounding a child sets a tone of fear within the neighborhood.
North Bergen Commissioner Hugo Cabrera said everyone is scared and concerned about the incident. The concern has led local leaders to take steps to inform residents about their rights if stopped by ICE, including the right to remain silent.
North Bergen officials have been holding seminars and passing out fliers to educate residents on these protections following the encounter.
Community Response and Federal Stance on Masking
Mother Bernice Escobar expressed worry for her son, noting that he looks older than his age. She advised people to carry identification and not speak to strangers, suggesting instead that they call a parent in such situations.
Castillo added that people should not be afraid of ICE agents because he believes they are just people trying to scare others.
Regarding the appearance of the agents during the operation, DHS stated that agents will not abide by what it calls unconstitutional mask mandates in New Jersey. The agency asserted that agents will continue to wear face coverings to protect themselves against threats and agitators.