Employees at Google’s DeepMind, the artificial intelligence lab, have reportedly sought clarity from management on measures to ensure their “physical safety” from ICE, following the fatal shooting of Alex Preti in Minneapolis.
In their post, the employee posed the question: “What is GDM doing to physically protect us from ICE? Recent incidents show that factors like immigration status and citizenship do not prevent aggression, and even death, from federal agents.” They emphasized the unpredictability of such situations.
They further questioned what plans the company has in place regarding safety in the workplace, along with procedures for clocking in and out. “Are we really prepared, given the changing and often escalating tactics of these agencies in various urban settings across the U.S.?”
This concern was expressed in a channel with more than 3,600 employees. Approximately 40 staff members reacted to this post, many showing their support with a positive emoji.
As of Monday night, Google had not provided any comment on the matter.
Another DeepMind employee referred to a past incident where federal agents allegedly attempted to enter Google’s office in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This event reportedly took place last fall, but the timing of the message regarding this incident remains uncertain.
Google’s head of security addressed the previous message, confirming that officials had “arrived at reception unannounced,” lacked a warrant, and were subsequently denied entry.
Neither Google CEO Sundar Pichai nor DeepMind President Demis Hassabis has publicly commented on Preti’s death. Jeff Dean, DeepMind’s chief scientist, described the shooting as “absolutely shameful.”
Meanwhile, Apple CEO Tim Cook expressed that he was “heartbroken” over the situation in Minneapolis and suggested it was “time to decompress” for employees, mentioning he had discussed the matter with President Trump.
In a related internal message, OpenAI’s head, Sam Altman, remarked on the situation at ICE, highlighting that there is a significant difference between deporting violent criminals and the current practices, urging for clarity in distinguishing between these actions.
