You’ve probably seen the news lately and are worried about the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency (ICE) showing up to detain – and possibly deport – you unlawfully. Well, leave it to the ACLU to inform the public of their rights. Here are some things that you should keep in mind if ICE shows up at your home:
- Do not open the door but remain calm. Know your rights.
- Ask what they are doing there (as well as an interpreter if one is needed).
- If they ask to enter, do not let them in willingly without a warrant (SIGNED BY A JUDGE). You have the right to refuse entry for them so long as they don’t have a warrant. If you do, ask them to leave any information at the door.
- If they force entry DO NOT RESIST but also tell everyone in the home to remain calm and silent.
- If you are arrested or detained, know your rights, such as the right to remain silent unless a lawyer is present.
- Even if ICE has an administrative warrant, this does not give them the right to enter your home without your consent.
Knowing your rights in the face of accelerated fear is a powerful tool to keeping you and your loved ones safe, especially when dealing with law enforcement officers.