Workplace Visit Response Protocol for External Law Enforcement Agents or Officials

RIT regularly receives requests for student and employee information from external law enforcement officials in the normal course of business, e.g., for security clearances required for federal employment, or site visits to confirm international student visa information. Occasionally, outside law enforcement agencies may also call or come to campus in person seeking access to records, facilities, employees, or students, when conducting investigations or enforcement actions.

RIT approaches any interactions with law enforcement with these key principles in mind:

• The safety, security, and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff will always be our top priority.
   
• RIT is committed to ensuring that law enforcement actions on campus adhere to due process, including requiring a warrant or subpoena when necessary.

Following these guidelines will help maintain the safety and security of our campus environment, and ensure RIT legally complies while protecting the rights and privacy of all individuals involved.

If you, as a faculty or staff member, receive communication or an in-person visit from any external law enforcement officials or agency requesting access to records, facilities, another employee, or a student, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers, you should:

Remain Calm and Professional

• Stay composed to avoid escalating any interactions. Do not run or flee.
   
• Always avoid taking any action to physically obstruct any law enforcement officers, including ICE agents.

Immediately Contact Public Safety

• Public Safety can be reached by calling 585-475-3333, or by texting them at 585-205-8333. Public Safety will work with the Office of Legal Affairs to determine whether the agents possess a validly issued judicial warrant or subpoena, as necessary.

Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

• Do not consent to searches or provide access to RIT non-public areas. Contact Public Safety and they will ensure that proper authorization is provided, if necessary. Law enforcement or ICE agents can freely enter RIT public spaces such as lobbies, dining areas, or parking lots.
   
• You have the right to remain silent during any encounter with law enforcement, including ICE, if the agents ask you for personal information.
   
• If you believe that you are the subject of an ICE investigation, you have the right to ask for legal counsel. The Office of Legal Affairs provides information on attorney referrals for personal matters. Learn more.

Protect Privacy and Confidentiality

• Do not share information about the visit with unauthorized individuals.
   
• Ensure that any information provided to law enforcement agents, including ICE agents, is done in compliance with university policies and legal requirements.
   
• Remember that RIT must comply with the law, including by protecting student information as required by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Learn more.

Additional Resources and Information

Know Your Immigrant Rights, ACLU
Center for Human Rights and Constitutional Law
New York State Guidance on Safeguarding the Rights of Immigrant Students