Lawsuit Accuses DHS of Targeting Protesters and Observers with Surveillance
A federal lawsuit has been filed against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), alleging that the agency illegally recorded individuals who observed and protested immigration enforcement activities. The suit, filed in the Southern District of California, claims that DHS violated federal privacy laws, administrative laws, and the First Amendment. The plaintiffs, including the Electronic Privacy Information Center, argue that DHS used facial recognition technology and other surveillance methods to identify and intimidate protesters. The lawsuit highlights incidents where DHS agents allegedly retaliated against observers by revoking their trusted traveler program statuses, such as TSA Precheck and Global Entry. The suit also mentions that DHS removed its 2023 policy on facial recognition from its website during President Trump's first month back in office, suggesting a policy change without proper procedure. 
