An ICE spokesperson told CBS New York the masks are optional but that "ICE law enforcement and their families are being targeted and are facing a 500% increase in assaults ... due to the demonization of ICE by hostile groups and irresponsible elected officials."

Hundreds of people have been detained by federal immigration agents in Massachusetts this year, with agents often concealing their identities. One state lawmakers is calling for a ban on law enforcement wearing masks in some cases.