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Tennessee Community Blocks ICE from Taking Neighbor by Forming Human Chain

HeadlineJul 24, 2019

Meanwhile, a community in Hermitage, Tennessee, prevented ICE agents from taking a man into custody by forming a human chain around him and his son on Monday. ICE agents tried to intercept the man—who has been living in the community for 14 years—after he left his home with his son by blocking him into the driveway. But neighbors saw what was happening and quickly went to offer support, bringing water and supplies to the pair as they stayed in their van. After a standoff lasting several hours, community members formed a human chain so that the father and son could exit the van and re-enter their home. The ICE agents only had an administrative warrant—rather than a warrant signed by a judge—meaning they did not have permission to enter the man’s house without consent. Immigration officers eventually left the scene. Neighbors say they are prepared to jump into action again if ICE reappears.

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