PCEB asks department for guidance on protests and federal enforcement; chief says department has no role in federal immigration enforcement

Board members asked how Webster Groves would respond if immigration‑related protests or federal enforcement activity created community concern. A board member said protests in nearby cities and recent executive orders had prompted resident questions about local preparedness and the police department's relationship with federal agencies.

Chief Vincent Simmons replied that the Webster Groves Police Department does not execute federal immigration warrants on behalf of federal agencies and that, to his knowledge, the city is not party to a 287(g) agreement. "We have no role in what federal law enforcement does," Simmons said, noting that federal agencies may give a courtesy heads‑up if they plan activity in the area but do not ask local departments to act on their behalf except in emergency situations.

Simmons said the department will prepare a short do's‑and‑don'ts FAQ for residents about protests, explaining the difference between peaceful, permitted protests and unlawful actions such as blocking intersections. "People have a right to peacefully protest. People don't have a right to violate the law," he said, adding that the department's first option is dialogue and de‑escalation.

Board members also discussed the risk of counter‑protesters and the practicalities of demonstrations that begin on campus or in public spaces; Simmons said most university demonstrations stay on campus and the department's aim is to protect safety while respecting free expression. He asked the board to use official channels to direct residents to an FAQ and the PCEB portal so that misinformation on social media can be reduced.

Ending: The board asked the department to assemble a short FAQ on protests and the department's role, and to circulate it via PCEB channels; the chief agreed to prepare content and suggested the FAQ be posted to the PCEB website and used in event outreach.