'Know Your Rights': ICE Encounters Prompt Union County Mayor To Issue Message To Community

LINDEN, NJ — Mayor Derek Armstead reached out to the City of Linden on Thursday with information on how his residents should act if they encounter federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.

This comes after at least one person was arrested in the City of Summit by ICE on Wednesday.

"Stay Calm. Know what you can say and do," Armstead said.

Identification

Residents can ask to see an agent's badge and what agency they represent.

Leaving

A person is allowed to ask if they are being detained. If not, they may walk away.

Remaining Silent

An individual may say, "I choose to remain silent" and not answer any questions.

Non-Citizens

Those who are not citizens of the United States must show valid immigration papers if they have them with them and are asked.

If they are not readily available, you may say you wish to remain silent and wait for a lawyer before answering questions.

Proper ID

Valid United States government identification should be carried at all times. Immigration documents should include unexpired papers like employment authorization cards, copies of I-94 forms, or Notices to Appear.

Foreign documents should not be carried unless necessary, and be safely kept at home.

A Search

If asked for permission to search, an individual can say no. Law enforcement will "generally need" consent, probable cause, or a valid warrant.

If they continue, you should not resist.

A person can say, "I do not consent to a search. I wish to remain silent. I want to speak with an attorney."

An interpreter can be requested if language can not be understood.

On Wednesday, Governor Mikie Sherrill signed Executive Order 12 that banned ICE from operating on any state-owned, state-leased, or state-controlled property without a judicial warrant or judicial order.

A new citizen portal was also established for residents, both legal and illegal, can report ICE activity in their neighborhood.

In 2019, the Garden State also enacted the "Immigrant Trust Directive." This policy limits the ways that law enforcement on the state, local, and county level voluntarily provide assistance and information to ICE agents.

RELATED COVERAGE:

1. Morris County ICE Shooting: What We Know
2. ICE Activity Prompts Response From Leaders In Union County

MORE FROM PATCH: Union County Holding Annual Law Enforcement Recruitment Fair

HAVE A STORY IDEA OR NEWS TO SHARE? Contact Editor Eddie Callahan at edward.callahan@patch.com to connect with Patch in your area.