US protests condemn ICE killing of Renee Good — justified action or abuse of power?

I think both things can be true: the agent may have felt threatened AND used excessive force. Fear doesn't automatically justify lethal action. That's why training exists—to help officers respond appropriately to threats. If the training is inadequate, that's a systemic problem that needs addressing.

The broader issue here is the militarization of immigration enforcement. ICE operates with weapons, tactical gear, and powers that blur the line between civilian law enforcement and military operations. This creates an environment where tragic outcomes become more likely. We need to fundamentally rethink how immigration enforcement works in this country.

What worries me most is the lack of accountability mechanisms. When police officers are involved in shootings, there's usually a clear protocol for investigation. But ICE operates under different rules, often with less transparency. This case highlights the need for independent oversight of federal immigration agencies.

This isn't about one agent or one incident. ICE has a documented history of operating with minimal oversight. The agency has been criticized repeatedly by civil rights organizations for using excessive force, conducting raids without proper warrants, and lacking transparency. We need systemic reform, not just individual accountability.

What's missing from this conversation is the legal context. Federal agents have qualified immunity, which makes it extremely difficult to hold them accountable even when wrongdoing is proven. Until we reform qualified immunity laws, we'll keep seeing these cases with no real consequences.