72-Year-Old Woman Pepper-Sprayed by ICE While Filming Files Legal Claim
Jul 30, 2026·Location: New York, NY

ICE agents conducting enforcement operations across New York City's five boroughs on July 30-31, 2026 were documented on video pepper-spraying Linda Wolff, a 72-year-old immigrant rights supporter, in Inwood, Manhattan while she filmed them on her cellphone. Wolff, who says her civil rights were violated, has filed a federal tort claim against ICE and plans to pursue a lawsuit under a new New York law allowing people to sue individual ICE officers in state court. She appeared alongside Gov. Kathy Hochul at a press conference this week highlighting the law, which also bars local police from participating in immigration enforcement. An ICE spokesperson said officers used "the minimum amount of force necessary."
Sources
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