ICE agents followed a pedestrian into an area shul today and made arrests, TLS has learned.

Following the incident, a mispallel at the shul shared a message emphasizing the importance of understanding proper protocol when law enforcement officers arrive at communal institutions, including shuls, schools, and other community buildings.

The mispallel noted that ICE agents followed an outside pedestrian into the shul and sought permission to search the premises from an individual who was not authorized to grant such permission.

The message stressed that only a property owner or an authorized representative should consider granting permission for a search, and that those responsible for communal buildings should understand their rights before allowing law enforcement agents access.

The mispallel also cautioned that granting permission to search could have significant consequences, potentially including searches and questioning of people on the premises, property damage, fines, and additional arrests.

The message emphasized that communal institutions should have clear protocols in place so that staff and other individuals understand who is authorized to make decisions regarding access to the building.

“We are law-abiding citizens, but we must also protect our communal spaces and institutions,” the mispallel told TLS, urging those responsible for communal buildings to exercise caution and understand the potential consequences before granting access.

The guidance applies broadly to interactions with law enforcement agencies, including ICE, police, and other government agencies.

The message reflects the mispallel’s guidance and is not a substitute for legal advice. The legal authority of law enforcement to enter or search a building depends on the circumstances and applicable law.