How to Handle ICE Requests

CU Boulder Police Department (CUPD)

24/7 Dispatch: 303-492-6666

Online reporting options

This guide provides steps for CU Boulder faculty and staff to follow if Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents come to campus. The document is not legal advice but rather a recommended process to ensure legal compliance while protecting the rights and privacy of students, staff and faculty.Ìý

Public Access versus Limited Access Areas of CU Boulder Campus

The ÁñÁ«ÊÓƵ18 is a public university, and a significant portion of the campus is open to the public, including enforcement officers. However, access is restricted or limited in areas due to privacy concerns, operational needs or safety considerations. Federal immigration enforcement officers are subject to these same access restrictions and must adhere to university protocols when entering nonpublic spaces.

It is important to note that ICE or federal Department of Homeland Security officials may be on campus for reasons unrelated to enforcement actions, such as recruitment events, lectures, or routine reporting related to visa status of international students and scholars. The university is required to report certain information about F-1 or J-1 visa status students to ICE, and must comply with on-site visits to review records when requested.

Access Categories

Access Category

Description

Examples

Public Access

Areas open to the general public where entry is not restricted or limited. These spaces are freely accessible and may include outdoor and common-use areas.

Outdoor areas, Library common areas, student services buildings such as the UMC and C4C, common areas, walkways, hallways and unlocked classrooms in academic buildings, dining areas open to the public, unrestricted access buildings and streets.

Limited Access

Spaces are generally left unlocked during work hours but are not considered public due to their function. Access to these areas may require special permission or operational needs.

Faculty and staff offices, classrooms in session, and operational facilities such as kitchens, maintenance areas and storage rooms

Restricted Access

Areas that require a key card, locked doors, or monitored entryways for access are protected to maintain safety and privacy.

Residence halls, locked classrooms, administrative offices and restricted research laboratories.

Steps to Take When Contacted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement

  • Remain Calm and Professional
    • Stay composed to avoid escalating the situation
  • Request Identification and Documentation
    • Politely ask for the ICE agent's:
      • Name and identification number
      • Agency affiliation
  • Direct ICE Agents to the Appropriate Contact
    • Inform the officer that you are not obstructing their process but that you are required to contact CUPD and wait for their instructions
      • Phone: 303-492-6666 (24/7)
  • Protect Student and Employee Privacy
    • Inform the agent that you are consulting with appropriate university personnel who will be able to answer their questions and that you are not obstructing their process.
    • Do not provide personally identifiable information about students, faculty or staff unless required by a valid subpoena or judicial warrant and told to do so by the designated police officer or the Office of University Counsel. Do not release any information if only an administrative warrant is provided. Examples of personally identifiable information may include and are not limited to name, contact information, class lists, student schedules, etc.
    • Ensure compliance with FERPA and HIPAA regulations.
  • Additional Support for Students, Faculty, and Staff:

If you have further questions, please see theÌýFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs).