Edina police to clarify policy: officers will not inquire about immigration status or join ICE sweeps, chief says

Edina’s police chief told the City Council on Feb. 4 that the department is finalizing a policy to clarify its role relative to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The policy, the chief said, reiterates existing practice: local officers do not ask about immigration status during routine interactions and do not participate in ICE “sweeps.”

During council discussion, the chief described the difference between local policing and federal immigration enforcement: ICE employs civil detention procedures and has access to booking and records information, while local police focus on enforcing state law and local ordinances. The chief said the draft policy was shared with the city’s Multicultural Advisory Committee (MAC); staff reported MAC had provided feedback and was appreciative of the clarifying language.

The chief told council that the policy will be published on the department’s page with the rest of the police department’s policies. He also said that the department’s interactions with ICE would be limited to circumstances tied to local criminal investigations, active warrants or other lawful processes that create a direct connection to a local case. In all other routine contacts, the chief said, officers will not act on behalf of ICE.

Council members asked for clarity and the chief said the department’s approach aligns with practices across Hennepin County and was informed by prior experience in other jurisdictions. The city manager and chief said the finalized document will be posted online so residents and staff can see the specific guardrails.

Ending: The chief indicated the department will publish the finalized policy and the council can direct additional review if desired.