Georgia-based legal advocate Stephanie R. Lindsey, Esq., has issued a public advisory regarding individual rights in the face of increased immigration enforcement activity by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
In a recent video shared on Instagram, Lindsey offered key legal guidance:
“If ICE comes to your door and they don’t have a warrant, you do not have to open it.”
Although she is not an immigration attorney, Lindsey made clear that her concerns stem from a broader commitment to constitutional protections and the principle of due process.
Her comments arrive amid growing uncertainty within immigrant communities following a U.S. Supreme Court decision that upheld the federal government’s authority to revoke legal status for over 500,000 immigrants.
They Followed the Rules—And Are Still Being Targeted
“These are individuals who did it the right way,” Lindsey said, referring to the affected group. “They went through the necessary legal procedures to be here. Yet, we’re watching lawful status be stripped away.”
Lindsey questioned whether current immigration enforcement is truly about national security or an attempt to displace marginalized communities.
“Maybe what the loudest voices really want is for all Black and Brown folk to leave this country,” she said.
Legal Advice: Don’t Open the Door Without a Warrant
Lindsey emphasized the constitutional requirement that ICE agents must present a valid, judge-signed warrant in order to lawfully enter a residence.
Her legal warning aligns with long-standing guidance from immigrant rights organizations and constitutional law experts. According to the Fourth Amendment, individuals have the right to refuse entry unless authorities present a warrant issued by a judge—not an administrative warrant from ICE.
“If they don’t have a warrant, don’t answer the door,” Lindsey said, adding that she’s received a wave of calls from immigrants and students fearful of being detained despite their legal presence in the country.
Legal and Policy Concerns Escalate After Supreme Court Ruling
The recent Supreme Court ruling further heightened concern among immigration attorneys and constitutional scholars. The decision enables federal authorities to rescind legal protections from immigrants who entered lawfully but whose statuses have since become vulnerable under changing administrative policies.
“It’s creating a chilling effect,” said Lindsey. “Students here on visas and families with lawful presence are being made to feel like criminals.”
While Lindsey acknowledged the nation’s interest in securing borders and preventing harm, she questioned whether current enforcement reflects that goal—or whether it’s being used as a tool of exclusion.
