HOUSTON – After a Facebook callout prompted dozens of questions from viewers, KPRC 2 spoke with an immigration attorney to explain the role of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and what its presence in the Houston area means for residents.
What is ICE?
Many viewers asked what ICE is and how it operates. ICE, or Immigration and Customs Enforcement, is a federal law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security responsible for enforcing immigration laws.
Immigration attorney Ruby Powers said ICE has operated in the Houston area for many years, but its activity has become more noticeable.
“ICE has been here for a long time,” Powers said. “I think that we didn’t really notice its presence because it wasn’t as aggressive.”
Can ICE agents cover their faces?
One of the most common questions from viewers focused on whether ICE agents are allowed to cover their faces or conceal their identities during arrests.
Powers said ICE has stated that agents may cover their faces for security reasons.
Do ICE agents have to show identification?
Viewers also asked whether ICE agents are required to wear badge numbers or show identification, and how that differs from local police.
Powers said ICE agents are required to carry credentials, but they are not required to display them in the same way local law enforcement officers typically do.
How can the public confirm it’s really ICE?
That question led to concerns about how members of the public can know whether the person detaining them is actually an ICE agent.
Powers said members of the public have the right to ask for identification.
Is there local or state oversight of ICE?
Some viewers asked what Houston or Texas leaders are doing to monitor or review ICE activity.
Powers said elected officials have shown varying levels of involvement and are hearing from constituents about their concerns.
Who oversees ICE and how can complaints be filed?
When it comes to accountability, Powers said ICE agents are overseen by the Department of Homeland Security.
She said complaints can be filed with the Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties or the Office of Inspector General.
How can residents contact lawmakers?
Finally, viewers asked how they could speak directly to lawmakers about ICE policies.
Powers said residents can contact their members of Congress through senate.gov and house.gov , or visit their representatives’ local offices.
Why understanding ICE matters
Powers said understanding how ICE operates and knowing where to find official information can help reduce confusion within the community.
Additional information and resources are available on CLICK2HOUSTON.com.