California launches online portal to report federal agent misconduct

California has officially launched an online portal where individuals can submit reports of unlawful activity by federal agents. The move marks a significant step in the state’s agenda to hold federal agents accountable for their conduct during immigration enforcement.

Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the portal in separate statements. Individuals can submit detailed reports, including photos and videos, of instances where they believe agents have violated the law. The reports will be used by the California Department of Justice to inform “possible legal actions.”

“We’re not going to stand by while anyone - including federal agents - abuses their authority in California,” said Newsom in his statement. “This new portal gives Californians an easy and safe way to speak up, share what they see and help us hold people accountable. No one is above the law.” 

The form is located on the attorney general’s website and asks for contact information, nature of the incident (excessive force, intimidation, etc.), location, any other complaints or legal action made and photos and videos. 

The webpage clarifies that submitting a report does not mean the Office of the Attorney General will take action on the complaint. The reports will be collected by the California Department of Justice to create a record of unlawful contact by federal agents and inform legal action the state may take to defend Californians’ rights. Using the form is also not meant to be a replacement for reporting crimes to local law enforcement.

“The Trump Administration is engaging in a campaign of terror and fear that has left some California communities scared to go about their daily lives,” said Bonta in a statement. “From unmarked military-style vehicles to detainments that more closely resemble kidnappings, Californians are rightly concerned that federal agents may be crossing the line and abusing their authority. The President’s actions these past 10 months only lend support to this conclusion.” 

The webpage also has various resources for individuals who have been affected by federal misconduct. For a referral to a certified lawyer referral service, individuals can call the State Bar at 1-866-442-2529 or visit its website at https://www.calbar.ca.gov/. For more legal assistance, visit https://oag.ca.gov/www.lawhelpca.org and click on “Find Legal Assistance” to locate your local legal aid office.

Bonta and Newsom both acknowledged in their statements that while federal officers have broad authority to carry out their operations, they must still follow the law while doing so.

“Let me be clear: Federal agents can enforce federal laws, and no one should interfere with them doing their job,” said Bonta, adding “but federal agents must also do so lawfully and in compliance with the Constitution.”