Brentwood officials reassure residents police will not assist federal immigration enforcement

Brentwood Police Chief Walter Rodnick and Mayor Susanna Meyer reassured residents in a community message that the city and police department will continue to prioritize public safety and will provide services regardless of immigration status.

"The Brentwood Police Department is here to protect every member of our community without exception," Chief Walter Rodnick said, adding that "current state law prohibits members of the Brentwood Police Department from engaging in or assisting federal agencies with immigration enforcement." He framed the department's role as public safety, not immigration enforcement.

An unnamed city official, speaking "on behalf of the city of Brentwood," reiterated the city's position that it will "provide all services to our residents regardless of immigration status" and encouraged residents to contact the police when needed. "If it's an emergency, please call 911 and our police department will respond," the official said.

Mayor Susanna Meyer, who introduced the conversation, said the message was intended to address fear and misinformation among residents and to connect people with vetted resources. "We are here today to talk about Brentwood's response to immigration and... connect people with resources and make them feel more comfortable and safe and protected and honored and loved in their own communities," Meyer said.

Community partner Maribel Mendoza described the East County Rapid Response Coalition, a group of local organizations formed "to really connect people with information, access, resources, and to be able to have conversations with... elected officials." Mendoza said the coalition aims to reassure BIPOC and immigrant residents who are fearful because of reports of enforcement actions in larger cities.

Speakers emphasized that the city's approach is to offer assistance and build trust. Meyer said vetted resources will be made available and urged residents to reach out for support and answers. The message closed with repeated calls for solidarity and for residents to use the city's resources and emergency services when needed.