Resources

The current environment for new and long-time immigrants within our community is uncertain.

As reports of increased enforcement activities on our streets and in our neighborhoods continue,

sharing information and resources for those in need of assistance is critical.

I would also like to thank our neighboring cities, OC Supervisor Sarmiento, and Congressman Lou Correa for allowing us to share information and resources they have made openly available on their government websites and social channels.

To better serve our residents, this page will be updated often as new information becomes available.

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Legal Services: Avoiding Scams

Immigration-related legal services are in demand, and with that comes some looking to take advantage. Here are some things to consider:

Only work with a licensed attorney
Notarios are not lawyers and cannot provide legal representation
Ask where a lawyer is licensed and for their bar number
Get everything in writing
Do not pay cash — use a cashier’s check if needed
Avoid anyone asking for cash
Verify lawyers with the State Bar of California

Calbar.ca.gov • (800) 843-9053

What to Know

Federal enforcement in Orange and elsewhere has expanded beyond targeted investigations to also include broad enforcement, with federal agents from various agencies (DHS, CBP, ICE) out in our community and others across the region.

Targeted enforcement can occur at homes, neighborhoods, and businesses with a judicial or administrative warrant and can involve deportation orders or suspicion of criminal activity.

Broader enforcement efforts include questioning of "collaterals" — others onsite at the scene of enforcement who are not the initial focus of the enforcement. Or by "consensual stops," where an officer asks someone out in public if they can talk to them.

Both types of federal enforcement activity is happening in Orange and across the region. Those concerned should know what their rights are in either situation.

It is important to know that federal agencies have the legal right to conduct enforcement operations based on actions taken by Congress, recent court decisions, and the U.S. Government Code.

You can see the U.S. Code section here.

Orange Police Department & Local Law Enforcement

Securing the border and enforcing immigration laws are responsibilities of the federal government. The Orange Police Department (OPD) does not enforce federal immigration law. OPD enforces state and local laws equally, without bias and without concern for citizenship. OPD also wants everyone to feel comfortable calling the police to report mischievous or criminal activity, and will never ask callers or victims their immigration status.

There has been no change to OPD's policy, procedure, or practice since the passage of SB 54.

OPD POLICY 412.2
It is the policy of the Orange Police Department that all personnel make personal and professional commitments to equal enforcement of the law and equal service to the public. Confidence in this commitment will increase the effectiveness of this department in protecting and serving the entire community and recognizing the dignity of all persons, regardless of their national origin or immigration status.

Orange County Sheriff's Department Statement on Federal Immigration Enforcement

Immigrant Resources - OC Supervisor Sarmiento • Second District

Immigrant Worker Protection Act (Assembly Bill 450): Frequently Asked Questions

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: ICE ARRESTS AT IMMIGRATION COURTHOUSES / CONOZCA SUS DERECHOS: ICE EN LOS TRIBUNALES DE EOIR