ICE in Ohio
Information about Immigration and Customs Enforcement activities in Ohio, community resources, and support networks.
Know Your Rights
If you encounter ICE, you have rights. You do not have to open your door unless ICE has a warrant signed by a judge. You have the right to remain silent and the right to speak with an attorney. For immediate legal help, contact the Immigrant Legal Resource Center or local immigration attorneys.
Understanding ICE Operations in Ohio
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducts enforcement operations throughout Ohio. These operations can take various forms, including workplace raids, home visits, and arrests at courthouses or other public locations.
Understanding how ICE operates, where they are active, and what rights individuals have is essential for community safety and preparedness.
Your Rights When Encountering ICE
At Your Home
- You do not have to open the door unless ICE has a warrant signed by a judge (not just an administrative warrant)
- Ask to see the warrant through a window or under the door
- You have the right to remain silent
- You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status
- You have the right to speak with an attorney
In Public or at Work
- You have the right to remain silent
- You do not have to show identification unless you are driving
- You can ask if you are free to leave
- You have the right to refuse a search of your person or belongings
- You have the right to speak with an attorney before answering questions
If You Are Arrested
- Remain calm and do not resist
- You have the right to remain silent
- Ask to speak with an attorney immediately
- Do not sign any documents without speaking with an attorney first
- You have the right to make a phone call
- Contact family or friends who can help find an attorney
Community Resources
Emergency Support
- Keep emergency contact information readily available
- Have a plan for childcare if you are detained
- Know who to contact for legal help
- Document important information (A-number, case numbers)
Documentation and Monitoring
OWL documents ICE activities in Ohio to track patterns, support affected communities, and provide accurate information to the public. This documentation helps communities understand enforcement trends and prepare accordingly.
If you witness or experience ICE activity, you can document it safely. Important information to note includes:
- Date, time, and location
- Number of agents and vehicles
- What happened (without identifying individuals)
- Any violations of rights observed
Important: Only document from a safe distance. Do not interfere with operations or put yourself at risk. Focus on factual observation rather than confrontation.
Community Support Networks
Building community support networks is essential for responding to ICE activities and supporting affected individuals and families. These networks can provide:
- Rapid response coordination
- Legal referral services
- Material support for affected families
- Documentation and monitoring
- Public information sharing
OWL chapters across Ohio work to build and maintain these support networks. If you're interested in participating in or organizing community defense efforts, visit our Get Involved page.
Additional Resources
Know Your Rights Materials
For comprehensive know-your-rights information, visit our Resources page, which includes links to detailed guides and materials from trusted organizations.
Remember: This information is for educational purposes. It is not legal advice. If you are facing immigration enforcement, contact an immigration attorney immediately.