Following new directives from President Donald Trump, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has significantly increased its operations across the United States, including in Kentucky. Thousands of federal law enforcement officers have been authorized to detain individuals who are in the country illegally. Since Jan. 24, ICE has reported thousands of arrests on X (formerly known as Twitter), reflecting the heightened enforcement efforts.
ICE Arrest Statistics (Jan. 24 – Jan. 29)
- Jan. 24: 593 arrests, 449 detained
- Jan. 25: 286 arrests, 421 detained
- Jan. 26: 956 arrests, 554 detained
- Jan. 27: 1,179 arrests, 853 detained
- Jan. 28: 969 arrests, 869 detained
- Jan. 29: 1,016 arrests, 814 detained
Despite these actions, it is essential for immigrants to understand their legal rights. The U.S. Constitution provides protections for all individuals, regardless of immigration status. Louisville-based immigration attorneys and the ACLU emphasize the importance of knowing these rights in different situations.
What to Do If ICE Is at Your Door
- Do not open the door unless ICE has a judicial warrant signed by a judge.
- Ask to see the warrant before stepping outside or letting ICE in.
- Remain silent and avoid answering questions about your immigration status.
- Refuse to sign any paperwork without speaking to a lawyer.
- You are not required to show identity documents revealing your country of origin.
If ICE officers do not have a judicial warrant, they cannot force their way into your home. It is within your legal rights to refuse entry. Keeping calm and not making sudden movements can prevent escalation. If you are unsure of your rights, contact a lawyer immediately.
What If ICE Stops You in Public?
- Do not run.
- You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Refuse a search of your belongings, phone, or person, unless ICE suspects you have a weapon.
- Ask if you are free to leave. If the officer says no, remain silent.
- Request a lawyer before answering any questions.
- Use a Know Your Rights card to communicate without speaking.
If stopped, staying calm and respectful while asserting your rights is crucial. Do not provide false information, as this can be used against you. If ICE agents insist on questioning you, repeatedly state that you wish to remain silent and consult an attorney.
Can ICE Arrest You at a Church or Immigration Court?
Previously, churches and immigration courts were considered “sensitive” areas where ICE operations were restricted. However, as of Jan. 21, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has removed those protections. While private areas within these locations may still be designated off-limits, it is recommended that such spaces be clearly marked.
If you must attend an immigration court hearing, ensure you have legal representation. Churches may still provide sanctuary, but it is advisable to verify whether they have clear policies in place to protect undocumented immigrants.
What Happens in a Traffic Stop?
A recent class-action settlement provides additional protections for immigrants in Kentucky and Indiana until May 13:
- ICE cannot stop vehicles for violating state or local traffic laws.
- ICE can only stop a vehicle if they have reasonable suspicion that it contains an undocumented immigrant.
If pulled over, request to know why you are being stopped. Provide only necessary identification, and avoid offering additional information about your immigration status. ICE officers do not have the authority to detain individuals for minor traffic violations alone.
How to Prepare If You Are Not Yet Detained
- Know your rights and assert them in English.
- Always ask “Am I free to go?” to clarify your status.
- Consult an immigration attorney before accepting voluntary removal.
- Be mindful of your social media activity.
- Create a safety plan in case of detention or deportation.
- Ensure U.S. citizen children have passports.
- Designate an emergency contact for legal and personal matters.
- Prepare funds for bond, typically between $5,000 and $10,000.
Additional Steps to Take for Safety
- Memorize important phone numbers in case you lose access to your phone.
- Have an emergency folder containing personal identification, financial documents, and legal paperwork.
- Establish power of attorney for someone you trust to handle affairs in your absence.
- Keep proof of residency such as bills or rental agreements to demonstrate ties to your community.
Community Support and Resources
Many organizations provide support for immigrants facing detention or deportation. Legal aid groups, advocacy organizations, and community networks can offer valuable guidance. If you need assistance, reach out to:
- American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
- National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC)
- Local immigrant rights organizations in Kentucky
- Pro bono immigration lawyers
Stay Informed and Protect Your Rights
With ICE increasing its enforcement efforts, it is crucial for immigrants to stay informed about their legal protections. By understanding their rights and preparing in advance, individuals can better navigate interactions with immigration authorities.
Disclaimer: This article has been meticulously fact-checked by our team to ensure accuracy and uphold transparency. We strive to deliver trustworthy and dependable content to our readers.