ICE Raids frighten the undocumented immigrants, FHS Responds

Journalist Emanuel Luengas explains the new ICE policies and how FHS will deal with them

ICE, or Immigration and Customs Enforcement, is a U.S. federal agency under the Department of Homeland Security. ICE enforces immigration laws, detains and deports undocumented immigrants, investigates human trafficking and cyber crimes, ensures border security, and combats transnational criminal organizations. They operate throughout the United States, including at borders, airports, workplaces, detention centers, and, with a signed warrant, at schools and private homes. The agency was established in 2003 after the 9/11 attacks, replacing the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). ICE became a household name after President Trump’s executive orders and the media coverage that followed, particularly regarding enforcement actions that primarily targeted the Hispanic community, as well as other undocumented individuals from various countries. ICE has been accused of arresting many immigrants either for committing crimes in the United States or for lacking documentation or legal status. Lawful presence in the U.S. can be supported by having permanent residency, a green card, or authorization to work. In the case of an arrest, a person is typically deported to their country of birth, where they hold citizenship. Due to executive orders from the current and newly elected President Donald J. Trump, ICE raids have become more frequent across the country. While some argue that the administration is addressing the large number of undocumented immigrants in the U.S., critics note that not every immigrant is a criminal, and there have been reports of arrests involving individuals who possessed valid documentation. Under certain circumstances, ICE agents can make arrests without a warrant — particularly in public spaces — if they have probable cause to believe a person is both “removable” and likely to flee before a warrant can be obtained. However, if the individual is inside a home or another private area, ICE agents must have both probable cause and a warrant to arrest or detain someone. If agents attempt to enter

private property without a warrant, the homeowner has every right not to open the door or engage with them. Recently, ICE has become more active across the United States as immigration laws tighten, and officers are directed to remove individuals who are in the country unlawfully.

WHAT ABOUT FRANKLIN HIGH SCHOOL?

According to the Franklin High School, website, we have a plan about what to do in the case of an ICE visit. This plan ensures that the ICE Agent is required to present their identification and credentials, and they will be escorted away from students and staff until the necessary information is verified, ensuring both privacy, cooperation, and safety. The number one priority of this plan is to ensure that students and staff at Franklin High School feel reassured and safe within their school environment.