Immigration Lawyer Concerned Over False ICE Raid Reports

Immigration lawyer Emma Mahern has expressed concern over the potential spread of misinformation on the website “Safe Together,” which migrants across the U.S. are using to avoid ICE raids.

The site, known as “Juntos Seguros” in Spanish, allows individuals to anonymously report ICE enforcement activities, including raids.

While some reports have emerged from Indiana, experts are warning that these community-reported updates may not always be accurate.

“It appears to be well-intentioned people who want to share information about whether ICE is conducting enforcement in particular locations,” said Mahern, an associate attorney with Muñoz Legal.

However, she emphasized that the data on the site is community-driven and could potentially be misleading.

Further Details

The website was created in response to growing fears among undocumented immigrants, particularly in large cities, after President Donald Trump’s election.

Mahern cautioned that some of the reports may be based on local law enforcement activity, which can be confused with ICE actions, potentially overstating the situation.

“People need to be cautious and aware of their rights when interacting with any law enforcement agency,” Mahern advised. “But don’t be afraid just because you see a report. Without all the details, it shouldn’t cause alarm for someone who is otherwise at low risk of enforcement.”

Mahern further explained that had mass raids or deportations occurred in the Indianapolis area, her legal association would have been informed.

So far, she has not received any reports from people detained during raids.

While the website aims to empower vulnerable communities, grassroots leaders like Carolina Castoreno, director of operations at Indiana Latino Expo, stress the importance of accurate information.

Castoreno pointed out that while ICE in Indianapolis is currently focused on individuals from jails, the situation is rapidly changing, and the community remains vigilant.

The website, which allows users to post photos and videos anonymously without needing a login, offers a layer of protection for those involved.

Castoreno encouraged continued use of the platform, despite the concerns over the spread of false reports, in order to maintain the integrity of community-driven information.