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Zion police chief reaffirms department will not enforce federal immigration laws, cites Illinois Trust Act
Summary
Police Chief Barton told the council the Zion Police Department does not enforce federal immigration law and does not detain people solely on immigration status, citing the Illinois Trust Act. The chief said staff discussed the issue with the state's attorney after recent enforcement activity in the region.
Zion — Police Chief Barton told the Zion City Council on Oct. 7 that the Zion Police Department does not enforce federal immigration laws and will not detain individuals based solely on immigration status, citing the requirements of the Illinois Trust Act.
Chief Barton said department policy aligns with state law: officers do not inquire about immigration status during routine interactions and do not act as immigration-enforcement agents. “Zion Police Department does not enforce federal immigration laws. Pursuant to the Illinois Trust Act, our officers do not inquire about an individual's immigration status during routine interactions, nor do we detain anyone solely based on immigration status,” Barton said.
The chief referenced a recent disturbance in neighboring Waukegan and said his office had conferred with the Lake County state's attorney, Eric Reinhardt, to clarify legal responsibilities and to prepare community notices. Council members noted community concern — including reluctance among some parents to permit children on school field trips — and asked that clear information about residents’ rights be shared.
Chief Barton and staff encouraged residents to contact the police department with questions about public-safety services and said department outreach would accompany planned community events.
