As part of an operation called “Swamp Sweep,” 250 Border Patrol agents are arriving in New Orleans today. They are expected to remain in the city for the next couple of months. They’re not here to arrest criminals — police do that. Swamp Sweep is a show of force meant to punish New Orleans as a Democratic sanctuary city. Cruelty is the point. Border Patrol plans to arrest 5000 of our friends and neighbors. Below are a few steps to help keep everyone safe:
- If you are not a US Citizen
- ICE and CBP monitor social media. Remove social media posts that might appear hostile to ICE, Border Patrol, or the Trump administration.
- Make your social media accounts private.
- Carry any immigration documents that you may have with you. If stopped, you are required to show your documents.
- Do not sign anything without talking to a lawyer.
- Memorize the phone number of a trusted contact.
- If you see Border Patrol: stay calm, don’t run, get behind a locked door on private property.
- STFU: Don’t speak to agents. Don’t answer questions. Only ask if you’re free to go.
- Do not commit any crimes in public. Border Patrol will use minor offenses as a pretext to detain New Oleanians.
- Be aware that New Orleans has a private unregulated spy network. Law enforcement can use facial recognition to track you and your public actions for at least the past 30 days.
- Secure your phone:
- Require a strong password to unlock your phone.
- Configure your phone to automatically lock.
- Enable Lockdown Mode.
- Require FaceID to open social media and messaging apps.
- Delete any problematic texts, photos, and messages.
- Post “No Trespassing” signs at every entrance to your private property and to all private spaces at your work.
- Lock every door.
- Don’t unlock a door unless presented with a valid judicial warrant signed by a judge.
- Record everything.
- If you spot ICE or CBP call 504-221-1499
