Interview Transcript:
ABC News: Hi Rosanna, thank you for coming on. So what are these agents legally allowed to do or restricted from doing in these airports?
Rosanna Berardi: So it’s important to know that they are Immigration and Customs Enforcement. They are an enforcement agency. They are allowed to do what they would typically do anywhere else in the United States outside of an airport. They can ask information about your immigration status. They can detain and arrest. They have full authority to enforce U.S. immigration law.
ABC News: And you heard Tom Omen there talking about the role here, that they will enforce the law at the airports. Is it just like any other public place, or is there anything different about what they can do within the airport?
Rosanna Berardi: So it’s really the same as anywhere else. The issue is it depends on who you are in terms of what you have to do or produce for the ICE agent. So if they do ask your immigration status and you’re a green card holder, you are by law required to have your green card. If they ask your immigration status as a U.S. citizen, you really don’t have to produce anything other than a verbal declaration. But if you’re here as a visitor or somebody that is here as a foreign national with a work permit, they can talk to you about your status and whether you’re here lawfully. So they do have that ability, and that’s not something we normally see at airports. That’s usually reserved for at the borders or international airports.
ABC News: So it’s a different tone, but I know Tom Holman said they’re there to enforce immigration law, but hopefully they’re also there to help move along passengers in these long, arduous lines at the airport. He does say that that is their primary objective. So what legal rights and protections do you think civilians should know about if encountering these agents at an airport?
Rosanna Berardi: So I think the best strategy is to be polite, courteous, and produce what they’re asking for in terms of documentation. Most people in an airport do have their passport or their green card, they are traveling. So full compliance is always the best strategy, in my opinion. Once they can secure your immigration status, you should be well on your way.
ABC News: All right, Rosanna Berardi, we appreciate your time today. Thank you.
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