Federal Judge Rules Against ICE’s ‘Knock-and-Talk’ Tactics to Arrest Illegal Immigrants

Judge Wright said the tactic violates the Fourth Amendment protecting against illegal search and seizure.

A man is detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Los Angeles, Calif. on Oct. 14, 2015. John Moore/Getty Images

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can no longer use knock-and-talk tactics to arrest illegal immigrants, according to a recent ruling from a federal judge.

“Considering the policies and practices governing how ICE conducts its ‘knock and talks,’ the more accurate title for certain law enforcement operations would be ‘knock and arrests,’” said U.S. District Judge Otis Wright, a George W. Bush appointee.