Federal Agents Use Halloween Masks During Controversial Los Angeles Immigration Patrols

Federal immigration agents in Los Angeles have been observed wearing Halloween masks such as "Chucky" and "Momo" while leaving staging areas for raids, sparking controversy and concern among local community groups and activists. Harbor Area Peace Patrols, a group monitoring federal activity, described the use of these horror masks as "terrifying" and an attempt to spread fear in local communities, highlighting what they see as immaturity and unprofessionalism among federal agents. California has banned most officers from wearing face coverings on duty, but federal agencies, including ICE and DHS, have rejected state jurisdiction over their operations and continue to disregard the law. DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin responded to inquiries about the masks with a brief "Happy Halloween!" and did not clarify which agency's officers were involved or address concerns about safety risks. The mask-wearing incidents come amid heightened immigration enforcement efforts under President Donald Trump, whose administration has been criticized for tactics perceived as increasing fear and confusion in immigrant communities. Federal agents' use of masks has been linked to a rise in assaults and threats against ICE officers, intensifying the debate over the appropriateness and impact of such practices during immigration raids.