Columbus mayor and police chief reassure residents after ICE deployment
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Summary
Mayor Andy Ginther and Police Chief Elaine Bryant issued a joint statement saying City of Columbus resources will not be used to assist federal deportation efforts and that Columbus Police will not investigate residents solely based on immigration status; officials also shared practical rights guidance and a city resource link.
Mayor Andy Ginther and Police Chief Elaine Bryant on Monday issued a joint statement in Columbus addressing the deployment of federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in the city, saying local resources will not be used to assist federal deportation efforts and that the Columbus Division of Police will focus only on evidence of criminal activity.
"Since 2017, I've been clear that City of Columbus resources will not be used to help federal deportation efforts or investigations based solely on immigration status," Mayor Andy Ginther said. The remark reiterated a standing local policy the mayor cited as the basis for the city’s limited cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
Police Chief Elaine Bryant said the Columbus Police Department will not investigate residents solely based on immigration status. "We will only investigate or apprehend someone if there is evidence of a crime," Bryant said, adding that while the city cannot prevent ICE from being present, CPD officers "will be present to maintain public safety." She urged residents to continue to call CPD and 911 if they need help.
The mayor and chief also offered practical guidance for people who may encounter immigration agents: carry identification or documentation if possible, remain calm and truthful with law enforcement, remember the right to remain silent, and do not obstruct federal operations. Ginther warned that residents do not have to allow immigration agents onto private property unless agents can show a judge-signed warrant and advised memorizing a contact number for legal aid and community refugee and immigration services.
The city directed residents to columbus.gov for more information and resources. The statement did not announce any new local ordinance or formal change to department procedures beyond reiterating the 2017 policy and existing CPD practices.
The mayor closed by saying, "We're committed to ensuring the safety and belonging of every Columbus resident regardless of where you were born."