Governor Ned Lamont said his administration is coordinating with community organizations in response to increased Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity in Connecticut this week and is working to ensure detainees and their loved ones have access to legal resources.
Lamont stated that Connecticut "does not want, nor do we need, the type of presence ICE has had in our state this week," citing the state's low crime rates. He said his administration respects "the dignity and humanity of every person who calls our state home" and values the contributions of immigrant communities.
The governor outlined rights available to all Connecticut residents regardless of immigration status. Residents have the right to remain silent, to refuse vehicle or property searches (though officers may still search if they have legal authority), and cannot be detained without reasonable suspicion of unlawful presence or crime. Residents also cannot be forced to unlock phones without a warrant.
If officials attempt to enter a home or workplace, Lamont said residents do not have to let them in unless they have a judicial warrant signed by a judge or magistrate. Those arrested or detained should clearly state they want to remain silent and speak with a lawyer before answering questions.
Lamont encouraged undocumented residents to create a family preparedness plan and said the state is providing community advocates and volunteer lawyers to assist those detained.