ICE Arrests in Pittsburgh Are Up. Here's What To Know

ICE arrests in Western PA have more than doubled since this time last year, and most of the people being detained have never been charged with or convicted of a crime. From a high-profile raid at Tepache Mexican Kitchen & Bar to arrests outside of courtrooms, ICE enforcement is causing fear and confusion in Pittsburgh's immigrant communities. Meanwhile, several local law enforcement agencies are signing up to partner with ICE, which is slated to receive an additional $75 billion under President Trump's "big, beautiful bill."

With all of this underway, we're bringing back our conversation with Vanessa Stine, senior staff attorney for the ACLU of Pennsylvania. She joins us to explain what happens during an ICE stop or raid, what rights immigrants have regardless of their legal status, and how bystanders can help during an ICE encounter. 

Read or listen to a summary of this conversation in Spanish.

**This episode originally published on April 2, 2025.

Looking for more help and resources? 

• The ACLU of Pennsylvania has Know Your Rights guides available in English and Spanish.
• If you believe you've witnessed ICE activity in the Pittsburgh area or have any other concerns, you can call the main line at Casa San José: 412-343-3111.
• If you are experiencing ICE detention, you can call their emergency response line: 412-736-7167.
• Find the latest data on ICE arrests and removals at TRAC.

Learn more about the sponsors of this July 14th episode:

Fulton Commons

Pittsburgh Cultural Trust

The Frick

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