As immigration enforcement activity becomes more visible, many people are feeling uncertain, anxious, or unsure where to turn. Questions come up quickly. What happens if Immigration and Customs Enforcement ("ICE") shows up at my door? What do I have to do? What are my rights?

Clarity matters in moments like these. Fear thrives in confusion. Rights exist to provide structure, limits, and protection, especially when power is being exercised.

This article is meant to explain, in plain terms, what Your Rights are if you encounter ICE, whether at home or in public, and how to protect yourself without escalating a situation.

If ICE Comes to Your Home

Your home is one of the most protected places under the Constitution.

If someone claiming to be ICE comes to your door, you do not have to open it. You may ask who they are and why they are there, and you can do so with the door closed.

You have the right to ask to see identification. You also have the right to ask whether they have a warrant.

ICE may carry what is called an Administrative Warrant, which is typically signed by an ICE official. That type of warrant does not give ICE the authority to enter a home or other private space.

To enter your home without consent, ICE generally must have a warrant issued by a court and Signed By a Judge. If they claim to have one, you may ask to see it. You are allowed to read it before deciding how to proceed.

If there is no judge-signed warrant, you have the right to tell them to leave your property. You may also post “No Trespassing” or “No Soliciting” signage on your door. If you believe someone is impersonating law enforcement, you can contact local police.

Your Right to Remain Silent

You are not required to answer questions from ICE.

The right to remain silent applies regardless of immigration status. If you choose to exercise it, say so clearly. You can state that you are choosing to remain silent and that you wish to speak with a lawyer before answering any questions.

Silence is not obstruction. It is a constitutional right.

If you are detained, you are Not Required to Sign Documents before speaking with an attorney. Signing paperwork without legal advice can have serious and permanent consequences.

If you need help finding legal assistance, organizations such as Community Refugee & Immigration Services and Legal Aid Society of Southeast and Central Ohio may be able to provide guidance or referrals.

If You Encounter ICE in Public

If ICE approaches you in public, remain calm. Do not run. You are not required to consent to a search of your person or your belongings.

You may ask whether you are free to leave. If the answer is yes, you may calmly walk away.

You should never provide false documents or false information. Doing so can create additional legal problems.

You also have the right to Record ICE Activity in Public as long as you do not interfere with their actions and are not breaking any other law. Recording is often one of the most effective ways to preserve an accurate account of what occurred.

If You Witness ICE Activity

You do not need to intervene directly to make a difference. In fact, putting yourself at risk can make a situation worse.

If you see activity that concerns you, document what you observe. Take note of times, locations, badge numbers if visible, and what you see happening. Recording or photographing law enforcement activity in public is protected by the First Amendment so long as you do not interfere.

If you believe criminal conduct is occurring, contact local police.

Accurate information matters. Calm documentation protects everyone.

Columbus Police and Immigration Enforcement

It is important for residents to know that the Columbus Division of Police (CPD") does not assist with federal civil immigration enforcement. Columbus City Attorney Zach Klein, which advises CPD, recently issued a Public Statement confirming this policy. This does not prevent CPD from cooperating with federal authorities in criminal matters, but CPD does not enforce civil immigration law.

CPD’s role is public safety, not immigration enforcement. Officers do not ask about immigration status when residents call for help and do not participate in ICE civil operations. Regardless of immigration status, people in Columbus should feel safe contacting police when they need assistance.

Preparation Is Protection

Knowing Your Rights ahead of time reduces panic and prevents mistakes.

The Immigrant Legal Resource Center provides “red cards” that explain basic rights during an immigration encounter. These cards are available in multiple languages and can be found at Ilrc.org/redcards.

You do not need to memorize legal rules in a moment of stress. Preparation allows you to respond calmly and deliberately.

Final Thought

Encounters with law enforcement are not the place to argue policy or resolve legal disputes. They are moments where clarity, restraint, and knowledge matter most.

Understanding your rights does not escalate situations. It stabilizes them. It allows people to protect themselves, preserve the record, and seek accountability later through the proper channels.

Calm, informed action is one of the strongest tools any community has.

If you have questions about your rights or need legal guidance, speak with a qualified attorney as soon as possible.

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Brandon Harmony is a Columbus Criminal Defense attorney. He is not an immigration attorney and does not provide immigration advice, including guidance on status or applications. He is available to explain general constitutional rights during law enforcement encounters at no cost for those who want additional clarity. Information is available at Harmony-Law.com