Whitefish community demands police accountability and end to ICE collaborations

The Whitefish City Council meeting on June 2, 2025, featured intense discussions surrounding immigration enforcement and community safety, sparked by the recent detention of local resident Paquero Henjifo del Castillo by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Community members expressed strong concerns about racial bias in policing and the collaboration between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.

During the meeting, several speakers, including Lena Camaro and Rebecca Miller, highlighted the lack of due process in del Castillo's case, emphasizing that he was detained without a warrant or evidence of wrongdoing. They called for the city to cease cooperation with border patrol for non-violent offenses and demanded transparency regarding police training on racial bias and immigration matters. Camaro passionately stated, "We are people. We are human. And we are good for more than just being your servants," urging the council to recognize the rights of all community members.

Miller further criticized the police report related to del Castillo's traffic stop, arguing that it did not justify the involvement of border patrol. She urged the council to provide public access to the training materials for officers regarding reasonable suspicion in immigration cases, asserting that understanding these protocols is essential for preventing future incidents.

The meeting also included voices of support for law enforcement, with residents like Jenny Padolo sharing positive personal experiences with local police. However, the overall sentiment from many community members was one of urgency for reform and accountability in policing practices.

As the council considers these issues, the discussions reflect a growing demand for equitable treatment and protection of rights for all residents, regardless of their immigration status. The council's next steps will be crucial in addressing these community concerns and fostering a more inclusive environment in Whitefish.