‘Suspicious package’ found during sweep of Brooklyn Heights ICE building

BROOKLYN HEIGHTS, Ohio — A heavy law enforcement presence was in Brooklyn Heights on Monday for what authorities are calling a federal investigation.

The Department of Homeland Security said the Federal Protective Service was conducting a sweep of a lobby inside the Brooklyn Heights ICE office in the 900 block of Keynote Circle when a K-9 alerted to a “suspicious package” in a UPS drop box.

FPS contacted local law enforcement and initiated a full evacuation of the building, which Brooklyn Heights Mayor Mike Procuk told News 5 is home to several offices, including the Department of Homeland Security, the National Weather Service and the Visiting Nurse Association.

“I was on the phone walking down the street, and they got me and pulled me over this way, got me away from the blast zone,” said Mike Gallagher, who was on his way to interview candidates for apprenticeships just before noon.

An office building across the street was also evacuated.

“We got a knock on the door. Everyone has to evacuate,” said Cru Leavitt, who owns EcoShield Pest Solutions. “Not much was said, just get out of the building.”

DHS said the situation has been resolved, and an all-clear was given to reoccupy the building.

“It’s scary; it’s a little eerie feeling,” said Leavitt.

A DHS spokesperson has not responded to questions about whether an explosive device was found or whether any crime was committed.

“It’s a scary world we live in, and this is a little close to home,” said Gallagher.