The Denver City Council is currently reviewing a proposed policy that would prohibit law enforcement officers, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, from wearing face coverings during arrest and detention operations.
Councilwomen Flor Alvidrez and Shontel Lewis are set to introduce the idea for a potential city ordinance during an upcoming committee meeting. The presentation for the meeting suggests that the use of face coverings by law enforcement, particularly ICE agents, is viewed as an intimidation tactic.
While the bill has not been formally introduced yet, the councilwomen will seek initial feedback from colleagues during the Budget and Policy Committee meeting. If there is general support from other council members, they may proceed with filing the bill for formal consideration.
The practice of ICE agents wearing opaque face coverings has garnered attention following a recent incident in Minneapolis where an agent, whose face was partially covered, fatally shot Renée Good. This incident has reignited debate over the use of face coverings by law enforcement officers.
Similar legislation has been passed in California, which prohibits police and federal agents from wearing face coverings. However, the Trump administration has taken legal action to challenge the law, citing federal court precedent.
The proposed ordinance in Denver would allow exceptions for undercover and SWAT officers, as well as for tactical operations. It would not restrict law enforcement officers from wearing helmets, transparent face guards, medical masks, or protective eye gear.
The committee meeting is scheduled to take place at the Denver City and County Building and will be streamed live online for public viewing. This is an evolving story that will be updated as more information becomes available.
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