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Columbus leaders reassure residents after federal immigration enforcement activity; reiterate limits on city cooperation
Summary
Mayor Andy Ginther and Police Chief Elaine Bryant said City of Columbus resources and CPD officers will not be used to carry out deportations or to investigate residents solely on the basis of immigration status, and they provided safety guidance and resource contacts at columbus.gov.
Mayor Andy Ginther and Police Chief Elaine Bryant issued a joint statement after reports of federal immigration and customs enforcement activity in Columbus, saying the city will not use local resources to assist deportations and urging residents on safety steps and legal rights.
"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. Police Chief Elaine Bryant added, "CPD will not investigate Columbus residents solely based on immigration status." Both officials said the city cannot prevent federal agents from being present but emphasized that local officers will act only where criminal conduct is involved.
The statements were delivered as officials sought to calm public concern after the deployment. Chief Bryant said officers "will only investigate or apprehend someone if there is evidence of a crime" and that CPD will be present to "maintain public safety" if illegal or dangerous conduct occurs. She also encouraged residents to continue to call CPD and 911 if they need assistance.
Ginther and Bryant offered practical guidance for residents. Ginther advised people to carry identification or documentation, "stay calm and truthful when interacting with law enforcement," and said, "Know that you have the right to remain silent." He also instructed residents not to obstruct federal operations and reminded them that they "do not have to allow immigration agents onto private property unless they can show you a warrant from a judge." Officials directed residents to memorize an emergency contact number and to contact legal aid, community refugee and immigration services, or Columbus police for help.
The officials pointed listeners to the city website for further information: "Go to columbus.gov for more information," Ginther said.
The statement reaffirmed an existing city practice dating to 2017 that limits the use of municipal resources in federal immigration enforcement. No formal city action, motion, vote, or ordinance was announced during the statement.
