Local experts discuss police raids, what not to do as a neighbor

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- With the Trump administration focusing heavily on immigration, a growing number of people in Western New York are being rattled by raids in their neighborhoods.

Many times, these raids involve a lot of police activity. They can be loud and overall startling for people, especially in quiet neighborhoods.

Retired FBI Special Agent Bernie Tolbert said he understands why people find these raids alarming, especially when officers are dressed in tactical gear and residents don't know what's going on.

He stressed that law enforcement has a job to do and that's what they're doing — this includes anytime you see police in your neighborhood or ICE agents conducting what appears to be a raid.

"I don't personally know that showing up at any place in the neighborhood in tactical gear, all the body armor, the weapons that they carry, even some of the equipment they bring, is necessary,” Tolbert said. “I don't know if I would do it that way, but I do understand that that gets attention."

Former Buffalo Police Captain Jeff Rinaldo said if someone interferes with law enforcement, they can also face obstruction charges.

"If you do see a large police presence on your street, in your neighborhood, it's best to avoid it,” said former Buffalo Police Captain Jeff Rinaldo. “Stay away from it. Let the officers do their job. You interjecting in the situation is only going to make matters worse. It adds a level of tension and safety risk for those officers."

Immigration lawyers said immigrants approached by ICE agents still have legal rights since they're in this country. They also said immigrants have the right to remain silent and can ask for a lawyer.