Tue Dec 09 01:53:05 UTC 2025: ## Trump Administration Sued Over Removal of ICE Tracking App
Washington D.C. – The developer of ICEBlock, a popular app that allowed users to track and share information about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration for allegedly pressuring Apple to remove it from the app store. The lawsuit, filed Monday by Joshua Aaron, argues that the administration’s actions constitute a violation of free speech.
ICEBlock, which boasted one million users before its removal, allowed communities to share real-time alerts about immigration raids. Aaron claims the app was designed to hold the government accountable for its actions. The lawsuit names Attorney General Pam Bondi, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, and acting ICE Director Todd Lyons as defendants, and calls on the district court to protect the software company from what it calls “unlawful threats.”
The Trump administration has been a vocal critic of ICEBlock, claiming it endangers federal agents. “ICEBlock is designed to put ICE agents at risk just for doing their jobs, and violence against law enforcement is an intolerable red line,” Attorney General Bondi has stated. The Justice Department confirmed that it contacted Apple regarding the app, leading to its removal in October.
However, Aaron argues that ICEBlock is an exercise of essential free speech, designed to protect people from potential government overreach. He highlighted concerns about ICE agents wearing masks, failing to identify themselves, and employing aggressive tactics during raids, including detaining children.
The lawsuit seeks to establish a precedent affirming that ICEBlock is protected under the First Amendment. It comes amid growing criticism of the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration policies, which have faced accusations of human rights abuses, including reports of inhumane detention conditions and the accidental detention and deportation of US citizens.
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