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An operation conducted on Sunday by agents of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Miami-Dade County left an eyewitness in a state of alert.
The individual, who was interviewed by the network Telemundo 51 under conditions of anonymity, admitted that they believed they were not detained because they were taking care of their young daughter.
“They took our papers, checked us, and took three people away. They didn't take me because I was with the girl. Otherwise, they would have taken me too,” the man declared.
According to their account, the ICE agents entered the house and gathered everyone in the living room, stating that they were looking for a specific individual who was not present in the home.
Upon not locating the target individual, they proceeded to detain other residents. "He had a deportation order. They were looking for him, couldn’t find him, and took everyone else instead,” the witness stated.
“I am scared for my little girl, for my daughter who is with me, of course I am scared,” he said. “I don’t know (if they will come back) they left and didn’t say anything else,” the man told the news outlet.
The implementation of these operations has raised concerns among the immigrant community in South Florida.
According to Adriana Rivera, representative of the Florida Immigrant Coalition, the raids are affecting not only individuals with criminal records but also others within the community.
Rivera emphasized the importance of ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their immigration status, are informed about their rights.
The Florida Immigrant Coalition recommends that individuals do not speak with law enforcement agents without the presence of an attorney and do not open their doors to agents unless they present a signed order from a judge.
According to reports from government agencies on social media platform X, agents from the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Justice, and ICE participated in the operations on Sunday.
It was reported that, on that day alone, 956 arrests were made nationwide, while this Monday, 1,179 people were detained, the highest number since last week, when the raids began.
In the case of Florida, those arrested were transferred to the Miramar detention center, reported América TeVé.
According to reports, ICE offices have a daily quota of 75 arrests, and anyone undocumented present during the operations is subject to being detained.
In addition, the protection of areas previously considered sensitive, such as schools and churches, has been removed, which during previous administrations were viewed as safe places.
According to information from Local 10, the educational system in South Florida has expressed concern about the recent immigration actions implemented by the administration of President Donald Trump.
In response, on January 27, 2025, Angela R. Fulton, the deputy superintendent of the Broward County school district, issued a memorandum titled "Update on Federal Immigration Policy for Schools."
This document instructs directors not to disclose student information without proper authorization and to consult with the district's legal advisor in specific situations.
Fulton emphasized that student records are protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), federal legislation that has been in effect for approximately half a century.
In light of this situation, the educational authorities in Broward are seeking to balance compliance with federal laws alongside the protection of student rights and privacy, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for the entire school community.
Frequently Asked Questions about ICE Operations in Miami-Dade and Immigrant Rights
What happened during the ICE operation in Miami-Dade?
The operation carried out by ICE in Miami-Dade involved the detention of individuals in a residence where they were searching for a specific person who was not present. The agents gathered everyone present and, upon not finding their target, arrested other residents.
What are the rights of immigrants if ICE knocks on their door?
Immigrants have the right not to open the door or answer questions when ICE shows up at their home. They are not obligated to allow ICE agents entry if they do not have a signed order from a judge. Additionally, if the agents have a valid order, they must show it through the bottom of the door or through a window.
How has the deportation policy under the Trump administration impacted immigration?
The Trump administration has intensified deportation measures, expanding expedited deportations to any undocumented individuals in the U.S., without the need for a trial. This has raised concerns among immigrant communities, as arrests can occur anywhere, even in areas previously considered safe.
What do immigrant organizations recommend to protect themselves from a raid?
Immigrant organizations recommend that individuals know their rights and have a plan in case of a raid. It is essential not to open the door without a valid warrant, remain silent, and keep a "Know Your Rights" card handy. Additionally, it's important to seek legal advice to be prepared for potential detentions.
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