Know Your Rights if You Encounter ICE in Columbus

Clarity on constitutional protections can help reduce fear and escalation during immigration enforcement activity.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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As immigration enforcement activity becomes more visible, many people in Columbus are feeling uncertain and unsure of their rights. This article explains what to do if Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) shows up at your door or approaches you in public, including your right to remain silent, refuse entry without a judicial warrant, and record ICE activity. It also clarifies that the Columbus Police Department does not assist with federal civil immigration enforcement.

Why it matters

With increased immigration enforcement, it's critical for Columbus residents to understand their constitutional rights in order to protect themselves and their families without escalating tense situations. This information can help reduce fear and provide a clear path to seek accountability through proper legal channels.

The details

The article outlines several key rights for Columbus residents, including: not having to open your door or answer questions if ICE lacks a judicial warrant, invoking your right to remain silent, refusing to sign documents without an attorney present, recording ICE activity in public, and knowing that the Columbus police do not assist with civil immigration enforcement. It also provides information on where to find legal assistance and 'red cards' that explain rights during immigration encounters.

  • The article was published on February 7, 2026.

The players

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal agency responsible for immigration enforcement in the United States.

Columbus Division of Police (CPD)

The local law enforcement agency in Columbus, Ohio that does not assist with federal civil immigration enforcement, according to the city attorney.

Zach Klein

The Columbus City Attorney who recently issued a public statement confirming that CPD does not participate in ICE's civil immigration operations.

Immigrant Legal Resource Center

An organization that provides 'red cards' explaining basic rights during immigration encounters, available in multiple languages.

Brandon Harmony

A Columbus criminal defense attorney who is available to explain general constitutional rights during law enforcement encounters, but does not provide immigration-specific legal advice.

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What’s next

The article encourages residents to speak with a qualified attorney if they have questions about their rights or need legal guidance during an immigration enforcement encounter.

The takeaway

By understanding their constitutional rights, Columbus residents can respond calmly and deliberately to immigration enforcement activity, reducing fear and the risk of escalation while preserving the ability to seek accountability through proper legal channels.