A self-identified tech enthusiast has developed an app aimed at tracking activities of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He describes himself as a “proud Antifa” member and has suggested that others should adopt the same violent mentality.

The app, called Ice Block, is designed to warn users when ICE agents are operating within a five-mile radius. Users can report sightings of agents, detailing descriptions such as attire and vehicle type, possibly helping undocumented immigrants to reduce their stress during encounters.

Joshua Aaron, the app’s creator, explained to CNN that he sees federal immigration actions as reminiscent of historical persecution, stating, “What if there was an early warning system? That’s what Ice Block became.”

Most of the app’s roughly 20,000 users are based in Los Angeles, many still unsettled by anti-ICE protests that occurred in June. Aaron claimed in a recent post that Ice Block is the top social networking app on the Apple App Store.

Meanwhile, in a statement issued by Ice Deputy Todd Lyons, the promotion of Ice Block was condemned, pointing out that it effectively targets federal agents who have already been facing increased hostility, with attacks rising significantly.

Attempts to reach Aaron for comment went unanswered, and his personal contact information could not be found.

Aaron is also associated with the Black Lives Matter movement, a group that has faced scrutiny over financial governance. He has some presence on social media platforms where his views can be quite provocative.

His opinions align with those of Antifa, a loosely connected group advocating against capitalism and the U.S. government, despite the absence of a formal structure. Former President Trump had sought to label Antifa as a terrorist organization but faced obstruction in formally designating them as such.

Previously, during discussions about Antifa-related riots in Portland, former Mayor Ted Wheeler acknowledged that much of the destruction was instigated by the group, highlighting major damages inflicted upon local businesses.

Journalist Andy Ngo, who frequently reports on Antifa, has suffered severe injuries during his coverage of their activities.

In an April 2023 post, Aaron suggested that all individuals should emulate Antifa, questioning the logic behind supporting fascism.

Political discussions surrounding Antifa have also been a point of contention, with some Democratic figures downplaying the group by framing it as an ideology rather than an organized movement. Yet, critiques have emerged pointing out that its violence cannot simply be dismissed as an abstract idea.

In another post, Aaron implied that supporting Antifa aligns with the tenets of democracy, encouraging opposition to fascism as crucial for a free society.

His more recent remarks seem to urge Antifa supporters towards more aggressive actions.

Throughout his commentary, Aaron has consistently been vocal against the Trump administration and its followers, reflecting a broader animosity. A particularly heated rant from November 7, 2020, crystallized his disdain for Trump voters, expressing deep-seated frustration and calling them out for their beliefs.