Immigration enforcement has always been a hot-button issue in the United States, and in 2025, the uncertainty and fear surrounding it remain very real. For many individuals and families, ICE enforcement isn’t just something they see in the headlines; it’s something they live with every day.
Whether you’re an immigrant, a concerned citizen, a loved one standing by someone who’s vulnerable, or simply someone trying to understand the realities of today’s system, you deserve clear, compassionate information.
At Pickett Dummigan Weingart, we’re here to offer clarity, dignity, and support. Everyone deserves to feel safe, to understand their rights, and to know they’re not alone, regardless of where they were born.
What is ICE?
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is a federal agency under the Department of Homeland Security. It is responsible for enforcing immigration laws within the interior of the United States. This includes identifying, arresting, detaining, and deporting individuals who are in the country without legal status.
ICE is divided into two main branches: Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). ERO focuses on locating and removing undocumented immigrants, while HSI handles investigations related to cross-border crimes such as trafficking, smuggling, and fraud.
But here’s the thing: ICE doesn’t just work at the border. They operate in neighborhoods, workplaces, courts, and even hospitals. And that reach is exactly what has many people concerned.
Recent changes in ICE enforcement (2024–2025)
Over the past year, ICE enforcement policies have shifted significantly. In earlier years, guidelines emphasized targeting individuals with serious criminal records or national security risks. But in 2024 and 2025, those priorities have broadened.
Recent reports show that ICE is increasingly detaining people with no criminal backgrounds, including those with longstanding ties to the U.S., pending immigration applications, or minor civil infractions. In some areas, routine check-ins with ICE officers have resulted in unexpected detentions.
This has left many in immigrant communities feeling uncertain and afraid, even if they’ve lived in the U.S. for decades.
Who is being targeted right now?
Unfortunately, almost anyone who’s undocumented. While ICE officially states that it focuses on individuals who pose a threat to public safety, real-world enforcement paints a different picture. Today, enforcement actions often include:
- Longtime undocumented residents with no criminal record
- Parents of U.S. citizen children
- Asylum seekers with pending applications
- DACA recipients who experience minor legal issues
- Individuals previously told they were “low priority”
This widening of enforcement has caused panic in communities where people once felt relatively secure. For many, just going to work, school, or a courthouse is a risk they didn’t have to weigh so heavily before.
The human impact of ICE actions
ICE enforcement impacts entire families, communities, and economies. When a parent is detained, children may be left alone at school. Spouses are left scrambling to manage bills and legal paperwork. Family-owned businesses lose vital workers overnight.
The emotional trauma can be devastating. Children live in fear of losing a parent. Communities become distrustful of local law enforcement. Victims of domestic violence may hesitate to call for help out of fear of deportation.
Sanctuary cities and their role
Sanctuary cities are municipalities that limit their cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. This means that local police and government agencies often do not share information with ICE or detain people on ICE’s behalf without a warrant.
These policies are designed to protect the rights and safety of immigrant communities. When undocumented people feel safe interacting with police, reporting crimes, seeking help, or testifying in court, it improves public safety for everyone.
Portland has long stood as a sanctuary city, offering important protections for its immigrant communities. Since passing a resolution in 2017, the city has limited cooperation between local agencies and federal immigration authorities. Portland police, for example, do not inquire about immigration status during routine encounters, and our city does not honor ICE detainer requests without a judicial warrant.
Rights you have during an ICE encounter
Knowing your rights can make a life-changing difference. No matter your immigration status, the U.S. Constitution grants certain protections to everyone.
- You do not have to open your door unless ICE shows a judicial warrant signed by a judge. Many ICE agents carry administrative warrants, which do not give them the right to enter your home without permission.
- You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status, birthplace, or how you entered the country.
- You can refuse to sign any documents. ICE may pressure individuals into signing voluntary departure forms or waivers. Never sign anything you don’t fully understand.
- You have the right to speak with a lawyer. Although immigration cases do not guarantee free legal representation, you may contact and hire your own attorney.
Practicing what to do during an ICE encounter with your family and keeping important documents accessible can help you stay calm and prepared.
At Pickett Dummigan Weingart, we’ve seen cases where individuals were physically injured during arrests, denied medical care in detention, or exposed to dangerous conditions in custody. We’ve also seen emotional trauma and psychological harm that linger long after an encounter with ICE.
In these situations, victims may have grounds for a personal injury or civil rights claim. We can help you hold the government accountable when excessive force, negligence, or rights violations occur.
Workplace raids: What employers and employees should know
In recent months, ICE has renewed its focus on workplace enforcement. Industries like agriculture, hospitality, and construction are common targets.
For employers:
- Ensure I-9 forms and employment records are properly maintained.
- Do not discriminate based on perceived immigration status.
- Know your rights when ICE visits your workplace — ask for a warrant and contact legal counsel immediately.
For employees:
- You have the right to remain silent.
- Do not sign documents you don’t understand.
- You may request to speak to an attorney.
Workplace raids can be chaotic and intimidating, but preparation can protect both employers and employees from unnecessary harm.
ICE in the courts: Detentions, bonds, and hearings
Once someone is detained by ICE, their case may move quickly, or drag on for months. Not everyone will get a court hearing, especially if they are subject to expedited removal. Others may qualify for a bond hearing to seek release.
Having a lawyer makes a tremendous difference. Representation can increase the chances of securing bond, avoiding removal, or applying for relief such as asylum, cancellation of removal, or adjustment of status.
Policy, politics, and the future
Oregon remains one of the most progressive states on immigration. The state legislature passed laws limiting cooperation with ICE and reaffirming Oregon’s sanctuary status. But federal enforcement policies still apply and often clash with local values.
Standing up for each other
Behind every policy are families trying to live, work, and build a future. In Oregon and beyond, we must continue fighting for dignity, justice, and safety for all.
At Pickett Dummigan Weingart, we’re committed to standing with you. If you or someone you care about has been harmed by ICE actions or denied basic rights, reach out. We’re here to listen, advise, and fight for what’s right. Contact us online or call us at (503) 223-7770 today for a free consultation.