We are appalled by yesterday's actions from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. The tactics deployed yesterday were disproportionate, eroded trust, and only caused unnecessary chaos in our community. To that end, we are calling on the U.S. Attorney to open an investigation into ICE’s conduct, including the use of tear gas, in what local law enforcement leaders have already identified as a poorly considered operation. 

We are further calling for a review of local and state police activity during yesterday's incident. A review of use-of-force tactics by those involved is standard practice, and something we fully expect to proceed and be shared publicly. 

Burlington and our surrounding communities have long held that potential violations of Vermont State law, by civilians and law enforcement officers alike, should be handled with appropriate care and transparency. This standard applies to all individuals operating within our state, regardless of which agency they represent.

Given that there are likely to be future ICE actions in Vermont, perhaps as poorly considered as yesterdays, a full and transparent review of the role local and state police played yesterday and would play in future similar circumstances is a necessary step for continued trust and public safety.

We further urge local law enforcement to make all efforts possible to visibly differentiate themselves from federal agents, as local law enforcement works to protect the First Amendment rights of all peaceful protesters. 

BBF stands with our community members and believes firmly in their right to peacefully protest. We urge all community members to be safe and know their rights.