California announces new online portal for the public to report alleged misconduct by federal agents

California’s top elected officials announced a new online portal Wednesday with the stated purpose of having members of the public share information with the state’s Department of Justice about “potentially unlawful activity by federal agents and officers across the state.” 

Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta issued a press release from the governor’s office, acknowledging that “Federal agents have broad authority to enforce federal laws, including federal immigration laws,” but adding that “they must do so lawfully.”

The portal allows citizens to submit videos and photos to help “create a record of potential unlawful conduct by federal agents, and inform possible legal actions the state may take to protect Californians’ rights.”

“The Trump Administration is engaging in a campaign of terror and fear that has left some California communities scared to go about their daily lives. From unmarked military-style vehicles to detainments that more closely resemble kidnappings, Californians are rightly concerned that federal agents may be crossing the line and abusing their authority. The President’s actions these past 10 months only lend support to this conclusion,” said Attorney General Bonta. 

“Let me be clear: Federal agents can enforce federal laws, and no one should interfere with them doing their job. But they must also do so lawfully and in compliance with the Constitution. If you believe a federal agent is acting unlawfully, you can report it to my office at oag.ca.gov/report-misconduct.” 

This comes less than a month after Newsom's former chief of staff, Dana Williamson, was indicted and accused of corruption and conspiring to defraud the United States, Just the News reported.  

Williamson, who was indicted by a federal grand jury on 23 charges, served as Newsom's top aide from 2022 through the end of 2024. Newsom and President Donald Trump have continued to wage a war of words, and Newsom is widely believed to be planning a run for the presidency in 2028.