Governor Lamont on ICE Activity in CT: What Residents Should Know

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Governor Ned Lamont on Wednesday said that his administration was coordinating with community organizations and advocates regarding increased ICE activity this week in Connecticut and responding on the ground to ensure detainees and their loved ones have access to legal and other resources they may need.

“At a convening of governors earlier this year, after the tragic results of ICE’s presence in Minneapolis, President Trump told us he would not be sending ICE into cities that did not ask for the help,” Governor Lamont said in a release. “Let me be clear: Connecticut does not want, nor do we need, the type of presence ICE has had in our state this week. Connecticut has some of the lowest crime rates in the country, thanks to the excellent work our state and local police do to keep violent criminals off our streets. Rounding up people at random to fill a quota does not lower crime. It traumatizes families and communities.”

“In Connecticut, we respect the dignity and humanity of every person who calls our state home, and we value the contributions of our immigrant communities to our state. I am also grateful for the community advocates and volunteer lawyers assisting those who have been detained and those they leave behind. For those communities being targeted, know that we support you and we’re here for you.”

The governor is reiterating the rights that residents of Connecticut hold—regardless of their legal status—as well as the resources available to affected communities.

The following information does not constitute legal advice and is provided for general informational purposes only:

Know your rights, know your status

  • Stay calm. Never physically resist, obstruct, or run. Keep your hands visible.
  • You have the right to remain silent. Say: “I want to remain silent.” (Exceptions include traffic stops where you must give your name and address if asked.)
  • You have the right to refuse a search. Say: “I do not consent to a search.” (An officer may still search anyway if they have legal authority to do so.)
  • You do not have to unlock your phone or give your password without a warrant.
  • You can’t be detained without reasonable suspicion that you are unlawfully present or have committed a crime.
  • Record names, badge numbers, the time agents arrive and leave, and what areas they access. Keep copies of any warrants or documents that are presented and take notes, photographs, or video of the interaction. You have the right to record police or federal agents in public, as long as you don’t interfere with what they’re doing.

If you’re asked about immigration status

  • You generally have the right to stay silent about your immigration or citizenship status, but you should know this could lead to a longer detention if you are undocumented.
  • Never lie about your citizenship or use false documents.

If you’re stopped in your car

  • Pull over, roll down your windows, put your hands on the wheel, and show license, registration, and insurance if asked.
  • If asked to search the car, say: “I do not consent to a search.” Officers may still search without your consent if they believe there’s evidence of a crime or a safety issue.

If officials come to your home or workplace

  • You don’t have to let them in unless they have a judicial warrant signed by a judge or magistrate that authorizes law enforcement actions based on probable cause.
  • Even if they have a valid warrant, you can still choose to remain silent.

If you are arrested or detained

  • Say clearly: “I want to remain silent” and “I want to speak with a lawyer.” Then stop answering questions.
  • Don’t sign anything you don’t understand or without your lawyer present.
  • If held by immigration, you have the right to contact your consulate.

Resources for undocumented residents