01/26/2026
Know your rights. ICE is not above the law.
As ICE has ramped up its presence across our country and our social media feeds in recent months, I know many of our residents are afraid and wondering what to do, where to turn, and how to help.
Here’s what you need to know about your rights if you encounter ICE at your home or out in public.
If an ICE agent shows up at your door, you have the right to ask for ID and their reason for being there. This can be done with the door closed. Unless there is a warrant issued by a court and signed by a judge, you have the right to tell the person to leave your property. Call police if anyone attempts to impersonate law enforcement. You can place a No Trespassing/No Soliciting sign on your door.
You have the right to ask to see a warrant signed by a judge before letting ICE into a home or private space. With few exceptions, the U.S. Constitution protects everyone against unreasonable searches and seizures. This means generally ICE cannot enter a home or private space without a warrant issued by a court and signed by a judge. An administrative warrant only signed by an ICE agent does not give ICE the authority to enter a home or private space. If ICE claims they have a warrant issued by a court and signed by a judge, you may ask to see it.
You have the right to remain silent. The right to remain silent is a powerful tool under the U.S. Constitution. If you choose to exercise this right, clearly state that you are choosing to remain silent and answer no further questions until you speak with your lawyer.
If you are detained by ICE, you are not required to sign any documents before you speak with your lawyer. If you do not currently have a lawyer, Community Refugee & Immigration Services (CRIS) or Legal Aid of Southeast and Central Ohio (LASCO) can help.
Remain calm and do not run away. If ICE approaches you, do not run away. You are not required to consent for them to search your person or property. Do not provide any false documents. If ICE asks you questions on the street, you may ask if you are free to leave. If you are free to leave, you may calmly walk away. You have the right to record ICE actions if you do not interfere with their activities and are not breaking any other law.
You can play a vital role. If you witness any concerning activity, do not intervene directly or put yourself at risk. You have a right under the First Amendment to record or take photos of law enforcement and ICE in public view so long as you don't interfere with their activities and are not breaking any other law. Document important information about what you witnessed. If you believe the action is criminal, call the police. Sharing accurate information and looking out for one another is one of the most powerful ways our community can respond.
The Columbus Division of Police does not aid ICE’s civil immigration enforcement operations. The Columbus Division of Police’s role is public safety, not immigration enforcement. CPD officers do not inquire about immigration status when folks call for help and do not aid federal immigration operations. No matter your immigration status, CPD is here to help.
Additionally, The Immigrant Legal Resource Center has red cards available in many languages, including English, Spanish, and Somali, at ilrc.org/redcards.
