Michigan AG Dana Nessel launches form to report immigration enforcement activity

Supporters say tool increases accountability, critics argue existing oversight already exists

LANSING, Mich. — Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel on Tuesday announced a new online reporting form that allows residents to submit information about immigration enforcement actions they believe may involve misconduct.

The form she says is intended to collect reports about alleged actions by federal immigration agents, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and follows what Nessel’s office says has been an increase in public concern. The Department of Attorney General reports receiving more than 5,000 emails related to immigration activity across the state.

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Nessel announced the new tool during a roundtable discussion in Lansing that included local elected officials, law enforcement representatives, legal advocacy groups, clergy members and community leaders. The discussion focused on immigration enforcement responses and their impact on Michigan communities.

“What we are seeing from federal immigration agents across the country has been deeply concerning,” Nessel said. She added that her office would not tolerate illegal actions against Michigan residents and would investigate unlawful conduct by federal officers when appropriate.

The form allows residents to submit details about incidents they witness, including the time and location, the number of individuals involved, agency affiliations, and whether tools or weapons were observed. Residents may also submit links to videos or photos documenting the incident, though the attorney general’s office advises against posting unverified claims on social media.

Submissions may be made anonymously, and contact information will be kept confidential to the extent permitted by law. The attorney general’s office said information provided could be shared with local law enforcement or other parties for lawful purposes. Officials emphasized the form does not replace calling 911 or local police in emergencies.

The office also noted that submitting a report does not initiate a lawsuit or legal complaint, and the attorney general cannot provide legal advice or represent individuals in court.

Some critics argue the reporting form is unnecessary and could create confusion or distrust. They say federal immigration enforcement already operates under established oversight and that allegations of misconduct should be handled directly through existing federal complaint processes or local law enforcement channels.

Others warn the form could encourage residents to misinterpret lawful enforcement actions or increase tension between communities and law enforcement agencies. Supporters of immigration enforcement say ICE agents are carrying out federal law and that additional state level reporting tools risk politicizing routine operations.

Nessel’s office maintains the form is meant to provide accountability and ensure that any unlawful behavior is properly reviewed, while encouraging residents to rely on verified information and appropriate authorities.