Immigrant Rights Advocates are Worried About Another Round of ICE Raids Targeting California

According to a report in The Fresno Bee, immigrant rights organizations are sounding the alarm that another round of ICE raids may be coming in the next several weeks or months. There are signs that the federal immigration enforcement agency is preparing targeted raids against ‘sanctuary’ states. Here, our Los Angeles deportation and removal lawyer explains what we currently know about this still developing story.

Washington Post Report: ICE Planning to Target Sanctuary States

On September 29th, the Washington Post published a story indicating that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is preparing a new round of immigration raids targeted against sanctuary jurisdictions, particularly sanctuary states. Though a spokesperson for ICE declined to comment on the report, the Washington Post noted that several sources with first-hand knowledge confirmed that the federal immigration enforcement agency is preparing for such an operation.

The California Values Act is One of the Nation’s Strongest Laws

Many immigrant rights advocates believe that California may be a target of any impending immigration rights. Passed in 2018, the California Values Act is one of the strongest ‘sanctuary’ state laws in the entire country. State law provides significant protection to vulnerable immigrants. ICE has consistently complained about California’s lack of cooperation with the Trump Administration’s draconian policies. In response to the report, Governor Gavin Newsom called the plan “cruel” and encouraged all undocumented immigrants to take a moment to review their rights.

Know Your Rights: What to Do If Facing an ICE Raid

There are few things more stressful or intimidating than facing an immigration raid. You need to know how to protect yourself and your family. Here are four steps you can take to protect your rights during an immigration raid:

Do Not Give a Statement: You are not obligated to give a statement to an ICE agent. All immigrants have a right to remain silent.
Record as Much Information as Possible: To the best of your ability, try to get as much information as possible. Among other things, this includes names of the officers and the location of the raid.
Never Sign Any Documents: Immigration officers often try to pressure people into signing away their rights. Do not sign any paperwork without first speaking to a trustworthy attorney.
Call an Immigration Lawyer: You are not alone. A Los Angeles deportation defense attorney can help.

If you or your loved one was detained by ICE or is otherwise facing deportation, it is imperative that you take immediate action. An experienced attorney will review your case and help you find the best path forward.

Call Goldstein Immigration Lawyers Right Away

At Goldstein Immigration Lawyers, our Los Angeles deportation defense lawyers are passionate, reliable advocates for our clients. If you or someone you care about is facing removal from the United States, we are more than prepared to help. Call our law firm now to schedule a strictly confidential initial strategy session. We serve communities throughout the entirety of Southern California.