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Sapolvita urges precautions for immigrants amid reports of detention-site planning
Summary
Senator Louis Sapolvita criticized federal immigration enforcement actions and advised undocumented residents to know their rights: do not speak without a warrant, avoid lying to officers, prepare family care plans, carry documents if available, and contact his office for legal help; he also cited state limits on local assistance to federal authorities.
In a detailed discussion about recent reports of immigration detention facilities, Senator Louis Sapolvita urged Bronx residents — especially those concerned about immigration enforcement — to prepare and know their rights.
Describing federal enforcement as “racist” and “xenophobic,” Sapolvita criticized recent federal actions and recounted historical deportations, saying officials sometimes remove people who have lived in the United States for decades. He cautioned residents: “If they don't have a warrant, what you can or cannot say. Don't say anything to them. Do not lie to them because that is an offense, if you lie to a federal law officer.”
Sapolvita advised families to have contingency plans for children and to consult legal services. “You can always call my office... we’re in touch with legal services associations and organizations throughout the state. And if we have to help someone get a lawyer, we will do that,” he said.
The host noted that Governor Madani signed legislation restricting state and local agencies from assisting federal immigration authorities without a judicial warrant; Sapolvita characterized that action as a protective step but emphasized that the federal government controls immigration enforcement and that community response includes legal preparedness and hotlines.
No specific detention-site addresses or federal operational directives were provided during the interview; Sapolvita’s guidance was framed as practical steps for people worried about enforcement.
