The Laredo Immigrant Alliance issued a warning after reporting a high presence of DHS-ICE and associated agencies throughout the city.

The nonprofit posted tips, rights and advice Friday for undocumented individuals who may come across affiliated agencies. Despite the report, it did not release figures on the number of calls reporting a high presence.

The group, however, pointed to several social media posts it said showed activity by federal agencies in Laredo over the past week. One post from April 28 appeared to show a DPS traffic stop along Interstate 35, while another referenced activity near San Bernardo Avenue and Boston Street the same day. A separate post from April 30 appeared to show Border Patrol agents stopping a vehicle near Lomas del Sur. Other posts referenced vehicles allegedly left behind after individuals were taken into custody.

LIA advises individuals to remain calm, not interfere with or obstruct police and not lie or provide false documents. In the event of an encounter, it also recommends having an emergency plan in place.

The group also notes that the Sixth Amendment does not apply in the same way in immigration cases, meaning individuals are not guaranteed a government-provided lawyer and must find one on their own. Nevertheless, if detained, they are advised not to answer or sign anything without a lawyer present.

It also stated that the Fourth Amendment does apply to undocumented residents. The Laredo Immigrant Alliance states that ICE must have a warrant signed by a judge to enter a home, and residents may ask agents to hold it up to a window or slide it under the door. A valid warrant must include the correct name and address, include the word “warrant” and be signed by a judge.

Lastly, the group reminds residents that they have the right to remain silent and do not have to speak with authorities.

“You do not have to answer any questions, even if they ask where you were born or how you entered the U.S. To properly exercise your right, you can say: ‘I choose to remain silent,’” the LIA said.