Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Homeland Security are conducting operations in Erie, according to attorney Alexandria Iwanenko, who specializes in immigration law.

She said agents have been questioning individuals, asking for documents, and visiting homes and workplaces.

"There were a few different names of businesses thrown around," Iwanenko said. "I can't confirm which one. But they were in the realm of, like, manufacturing...factory businesses."

She became aware of the encounters Thursday. The agents have been in Erie for several days, she said.

We're told these actions are not part of a large-scale raid, but small groups of two to four people have been questioned and, in some cases, taken into custody.

"I've had people call and say 'Hey, this just happened. This person just got picked up. They're my husband, my Dad, we don't know where they're taking them," she said.

With uncertainty about what immigration enforcement will look like in the Trump administration, she wants people to know their immigration status.

"If you have any questions, please reach out," she said. "We can help clarify. We don't want there to be mass panic and hysteria but do want to acknowledge this is happening and make sure people are prepared."

Erie News Now has reached out to law enforcement to learn more about the operations, but we are still waiting to hear back.

Response From Erie's Public Schools 

Erie's Public Schools told Erie News Now the district has guidelines for staff should they encounter any federal law enforcement officers in the following statement:

District administration and the Solicitor’s Office have prepared clear guidelines for our staff regarding what to do in the event of any potential interaction with federal law enforcement officers, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The district is committed to following all applicable federal and state laws, and to do so while preserving the sanctity of the learning environment of our schools.

Erie’s Public Schools is committed to educating all students, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation or immigration status, and, in accordance with applicable law, does not ask for the immigration status of families and students.

 

What To Do If Approached By Agents

Iwanenko said someone should do these things if they are approached by an immigration agent:

  • Remain calm
  • Do not resist, argue, or run
  • Don't sign a document if unsure about what it says

Remember, you have the right to an attorney and the right to remain silent, she said.

Full Interview

Learn more about the ICE and Homeland Security operations and what people should do in this full interview with Iwanenko: