In a strongly worded video posted to Instagram, immigration attorney LaToya McBean-Pompy, Esq., founder of McBean Law, PLLC, is warning the public about a reported “major blitz” planned by U.S.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) across the New York City area. The video, which quickly gained traction online, outlines key legal rights individuals should assert if confronted by ICE agents in public spaces or at home.
“You still have the right to remain silent,” McBean-Pompy said. “If they stop you on the street or find you in a public place, you do not have to answer questions about your citizenship status, where you’re from, or how you came to America.”
McBean-Pompy emphasized that individuals approached in their homes can legally refuse to open the door and should demand to see a judicial warrant, preferably through a window or under the door.
“Most times, they will not have a judicial warrant,” she noted.
The seasoned attorney, whose firm operates nationwide, raised particular concern about the growing trend of indefinite ICE detention without bond, warning families to have legal counsel lined up in advance.
“The conditions in these detention centers and camps are absolutely awful,” she said. “So immediately get to work on your case. Some people may be released because of serious medical conditions—but ICE is becoming less sensitive to those issues, even if you have young children at home.”
McBean-Pompy also cautioned detainees not to sign any documents before speaking with legal counsel.
“You might be signing paperwork to send you back home. Be very, very careful,” she advised.
This public advisory comes amid rising anxiety among immigrant communities in New York and other sanctuary jurisdictions, where increased ICE enforcement has become more frequent under evolving federal immigration directives.
Advocates continue to express alarm over lack of judicial oversight, detention conditions, and the vulnerability of individuals with little access to legal defense.
McBean-Pompy, whose firm has built a national reputation for aggressive immigration defense, is urging the public to educate themselves on their rights and to act swiftly if a family member is detained.
