As an immigration attorney, I’ve seen how recent news and changes in immigration policies deeply affect our community. In this article, I want to share essential information about the new laws, ICE raids, and how to protect yourself legally if you’re an immigrant in the United States. My name is Narciso Cruz, immigration attorney, and my goal with this article is to offer you clarity, tools, and hope so you can face this stage with knowledge and security.
SB805: Protection against abuse in immigration raids
A new bill was recently introduced in California, SB805, aiming to stop a disturbing practice: immigration agents approaching people on the street while wearing masks, without identifying themselves or showing official credentials. This has caused fear and confusion in our communities, with many people reporting feeling like they were being kidnapped due to the intimidating and non-transparent nature of these arrests.
This bill, promoted by Senator Sasha René Pérez, requires all agents involved in immigration raids in California to clearly identify themselves by name or badge and avoid covering their faces. The initiative seeks to eliminate fear caused by these tactics and protect Latino communities from potential abuse.
As an immigration attorney, my opinion is clear: those making arrests must show their faces and credentials. There is no reason to hide when performing work that directly affects families and innocent people.
What should you do if approached by unidentified agents?
If you are undocumented and someone without identification attempts to detain you, it’s essential that you know your rights. Although agents are mandated to enforce immigration laws, you are not required to answer questions or provide personal information.
My advice: stay calm, do not share information, and clearly state that you do not wish to participate in the investigation. You can say something like:
“I understand you have a mandate, but I do not want to participate in this investigation. Thank you, but I’d like to continue with my day.”
Additionally, it is legal to record these interactions to protect yourself in case of abuse—just remain prudent.
The myth of the criminal immigrant: Over 70% of detainees have no criminal record
A little-known truth is that over 70% of people detained by ICE since January 2025 have no criminal record. A study by the Cato Institute reveals that 93% of them have not been convicted of violent crimes. This disproves the narrative that only dangerous criminals are being detained.
It’s important to clarify that being undocumented in the U.S. is not a criminal offense, but a civil violation. The exception is if a person has been previously deported and re-enters illegally, which is considered a crime. Most detainees are parents, workers, and humble community members simply seeking a better future for their families.
Why should this policy concern us?
Because ICE’s current strategy aims to detain anyone who looks like an immigrant, regardless of background. This creates an environment of fear and distrust in our communities, affecting entire families and innocent people.
Legal options for undocumented immigrants: The importance of consulting an immigration attorney
If you’re worried about being detained for being undocumented, the best thing you can do is consult with an immigration attorney to learn your legal options. Although not everyone qualifies for a traditional adjustment of status, there are alternatives based on humanitarian circumstances such as:
- Victims of labor abuse or human trafficking
- People who have suffered crimes and may qualify for a U visa
- Individuals with prior deportations or multiple entries
These benefits can grant work permits, legal protection, and a path to permanent residency (green card) in the U.S. without leaving the country.
At our office, we specialize in analyzing each case in depth to find solutions that many people don’t know exist. Don’t let fear paralyze you—a consultation can change your life.
Mass raids and the use of false documents: What you need to know
A recent mass raid at a processing plant in Omaha, Nebraska, led to the arrest of 76 workers for using stolen identities to gain employment. While some have already been deported, most remain in ICE custody. This case has reignited debate about immigration reform and the failure of systems like E-Verify to detect false documents.
As an immigration attorney, I would never recommend using false documents, as it is illegal. However, it’s essential to understand the context: many people resort to these measures due to the lack of legal work options to support their families.
What if you or someone you know used false documents?
First, do not panic—seek specialized legal advice. It’s possible to assess the risks and explore options to regularize your status. There are also immigration benefits such as the T visa for victims of labor abuse, which can provide protection and a path to legality—even if the person no longer works at the place where the abuse occurred or lacks documentary evidence.
The impact of Trump’s new proposed bill: More deportations and higher costs
A massive bill has been proposed that would allocate $150 billion to speed up deportations, expand the border wall, and increase immigration process fees like asylum and TPS. It also proposes opening California’s largest immigration detention center, with capacity for 2,500 people.
This bill, known as “The Big Beautiful Bill,” aims to increase the number of immigration judges and agents and make legal processes stricter and more expensive. For example:
- Work permits for asylum seekers could cost over $1,000
- TPS applications may rise to $500
- Immigration court appeals could cost up to $900
These changes would make access to legality even more difficult for immigrants with limited resources.
What does this mean for people seeking humanitarian benefits?
Processes for visas like U, T, VAWA, or family petitions won’t disappear but will become stricter and more demanding. That’s why it’s critical to work with an experienced attorney who understands how to build strong cases and improve the chances of success.
The reality of private detention centers and their impact on the community
Plans to reopen a prison in California City as the largest immigration detention center in the state have sparked strong opposition. These centers are run by private companies that profit from mass detentions, family separation, and the criminalization of vulnerable immigrants.
As an immigration attorney, I can confirm that these centers operate as businesses built on human suffering. Private companies need to keep their beds full to profit, so they pressure for increasingly strict and punitive immigration policies.
The community must be aware of this and stay united to demand a more humane and fair approach.
A message for the immigrant community: You are not alone—act now
I understand that fear and anxiety are legitimate feelings in such difficult times. However, living in fear is neither healthy nor productive. Real power comes from action: seeking legal help, knowing your rights, and making decisions that move you closer to stability and peace of mind.
Think of it as being on a sinking ship—you can freeze in the middle of the sea or start swimming toward the shore. The choice is yours.
What if you’ve already started an immigration process?
It’s important to know that starting a process for a U visa, T visa, asylum, or other benefit may offer you protection while your case is pending—even if you haven’t yet received work authorization or residency. At our office, we work to build solid and responsible cases, always aiming for the best possible outcome for each client.
My story and commitment as an immigration attorney
I want to share a bit of my personal story. I’m an immigrant who came to the United States as a child. Like many families, we came chasing the American dream, seeking opportunities that didn’t exist in our country of origin. My parents worked humble jobs to give us a better life, and thanks to residency and eventual citizenship, I was able to reach my goals and now help others do the same.
Immigration is a life-changing investment—economically, emotionally, and spiritually. I’ve seen how having legal status brings peace and reunites families. That’s why my commitment as an immigration attorney is to defend my community, fight for their rights, and help turn their dreams into reality.
Conclusion
Recent news about mass raids, restrictive laws, and detention centers may cause fear—but they should also motivate us to act with knowledge and legal support. As an immigration attorney, I encourage you not to remain in doubt or uncertainty. Talk to a professional who can analyze your situation and offer the best options to protect you and move you toward legal status.
Remember, you are not alone and there are solutions—even in the most complex cases. Information and action are your best tools to face these difficult times.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What are my rights if approached by an ICE agent without ID?
You have the right not to answer questions or provide personal information. You can ask them to identify themselves and say that you do not wish to participate in the investigation.
Is being undocumented a criminal offense?
No, being undocumented is a civil violation. It only becomes a criminal offense if you re-enter the U.S. illegally after deportation.
Can I use false documents to work?
Using false documents is illegal and can have serious consequences. However, there are immigration benefits for victims of labor abuse that may help regularize your status.
What can I do about rising immigration fees?
It’s recommended to start your process as soon as possible to avoid higher fees and take advantage of current policies.
Are there legal options for immigrants without a criminal record?
Yes, there are several humanitarian options such as U, T, and VAWA visas that provide protection and a path to residency.
Where can I find reliable legal help?
Reach out to experienced immigration attorneys in your area or those offering consultations by phone or video call to receive personalized advice.