The ACLU said Thursday that it filed the federal lawsuit on behalf of activists who were trying to document California border crossings with Mexico and had their photos deleted by authorities. The lawsuit says the government requires approval for images taken at or near ports of entry.

 

Customs and Border Protection officials had no immediate comment when asked about the lawsuit and its policy on taking photographs.

 

In its lawsuit filed Wednesday in San Diego, the ACLU says the policy violates constitutional rights to free speech and against illegal search and seizure. It says the policy deters the public from documenting potential misconduct.