Columbus leaders confirm federal immigration operations, urge residents to stay calm and know their rights

Mayor Ginther and other city leaders held a news briefing to confirm that federal immigration agents are operating in Columbus and to urge residents not to panic while the city gathers information and offers support.

"We have not asked for and do not need this unwelcome intervention," Mayor Ginther said, arguing Columbus is already safe and that recent crime statistics show the city is trending in a positive direction. "Homicides are down 35% from last year ... the Columbus division of police homicide solve rate is at an impressive 79 for 2025," he said.

The mayor and officials emphasized an existing 2017 executive order that prohibits the city from using its resources to support deportation efforts absent evidence of criminal activity. "This means that we will not aid investigations into Columbus residents solely based on their immigration status," Ginther said.

Police Chief Delaine Bryant reiterated departmental practice: "Sworn personnel shall not arrest or detain persons based solely on immigration status or for immigration and customs enforcement unless a warrant exists or a criminal violation was observed," and added, "We do not assist in the removal or transportation of people in immigration enforcement proceedings." Chief Bryant also told reporters the division had received three calls for service related to ICE activity but said the city did not have an exact count of federal agents operating locally.

City Attorney Klein said federal operations are separate from Columbus Division of Police activities and that the city's policies are "in complete compliance with federal law." He advised residents to report suspicious activity through nonemergency channels and to consult verified sources such as legal-aid organizations for specific legal questions.

During a question-and-answer session, officials said they were monitoring social media and open-source reports to try to verify locations and incidents but that publicly shared videos are often low quality and unverified. Several speakers warned of reports of people impersonating ICE agents and urged residents to ask for identification and not to sign documents they do not understand. An unnamed council member urged community members to use "red cards" (multilingual documents that outline rights) and to rely on trusted resettlement organizations distributing information on platforms widely used by immigrant communities.

City leaders described outreach efforts with resettlement organizations, a rapid response network and the commission on immigrant and refugee affairs to support families who may lose income or access to services after detentions. The mayor said the city will coordinate with suburban partners, the county and school districts to share information and best practices as the situation evolves and will post updates and translated materials on columbus.gov/allofus.

The briefing closed after a final round of questions; no formal actions or votes were taken. Officials said they would share further verified information as it becomes available.