ICE Operations: Everything You Need to Know to Protect Yourself

Hello everyone, this is Attorney María Mendoza. I want to talk to you about the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Service (ICE). Last Sunday, they carried out one of the most controversial immigration enforcement operations in recent years, arresting nearly 1,000 immigrants in various cities across the United States.

According to ICE, agents made 956 arrests and issued 554 detention orders, based on “probable cause” to consider that the individuals were deportable under federal immigration law. This increase in operations comes just days before the start of President Donald Trump’s second term, where in his first week, he made clear his administration’s stance by signing a series of executive orders aimed at strengthening immigration enforcement policies.

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Raids in Multiple Cities

ICE carried out operations in various cities including: Chicago, Newark, Atlanta, Phoenix, Omaha, Detroit, Miami, Austin, San Antonio, Los Angeles, San Jose, and Denver. Although these were independent operations, they all shared the goal of “preserving national and public safety by keeping potentially dangerous foreign criminals out of our communities.”

In Denver, federal agents arrested nearly 50 individuals. In Miami, five people with criminal records were reported to have been detained, including cases of domestic violence, drug possession, aggravated assault, and multiple traffic offenses.

What Impact Do These Operations Have on the Immigrant Community?

ICE agents have carried out raids in workplaces, neighborhoods, and public spaces, focusing on individuals with pending deportation orders. However, they have also detained immigrants without criminal records. These operations impact not only the families of the detainees but also the stability of the broader community. Family separations and the risk of deportation are some of the most serious consequences of these actions.

As a community, it is crucial to stay informed, be supportive, and be prepared. Immigration attorneys and support organizations are tirelessly working to protect the rights of immigrants and provide resources.

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How to Protect Yourself and Know Your Rights

It is important to remember that all immigrants, regardless of their immigration status, have fundamental rights, such as:

• Right to Remain Silent: If an ICE agent approaches you, you have the right to remain silent and not answer questions.

• Do Not Open the Door: ICE needs a signed judicial warrant from a judge to enter your home. If they do not have one, you are not obligated to open the door.

• Consult with an Immigration Attorney: If you have any doubts about your immigration status or need legal assistance, you have the right to request professional counsel.

At The Mendoza Law Firm, we have over 15 years of experience. If you or someone you know is facing any of the situations described in this blog, don’t hesitate to contact us. Contact Us Now!

Together, we can overcome these difficult times. ¡La Lucha Sigue!