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Staunton mayor addresses immigrant safety and clarifies limits of local enforcement
Summary
Mayor Edwards told the council and public Feb. 12 that Staunton Police does not have a cooperative agreement with federal immigration enforcement and does not hold detainees for federal immigration authorities, while urging humility and relationship‑based outreach to help newcomers access services.
In his Feb. 12 mayor’s report, Mayor Edwards addressed growing resident concerns about federal immigration enforcement actions and safety for newcomers. He said the city has been listening to requests for a resolution but cautioned that a symbolic resolution may not be protective for those who do not trust government. He stressed the need for "humility, listening, and care" in outreach to immigrant communities and said the city will prioritize building trust and meeting immediate needs.
On operational limits, Mayor Edwards stated that the Staunton Police Department "does not have and has never had a cooperative agreement with Federal immigration enforcement" and that the department "does not hold detainees on behalf of federal immigration authorities." He also acknowledged legal realities, noting local law enforcement cannot interfere with a lawful arrest supported by a judicial warrant. The mayor closed by reiterating that all residents can access emergency services and city facilities and urged sustained grassroots outreach to build safety for vulnerable residents.
Councilors thanked volunteers and staff for recent shelter and storm response efforts and noted that follow‑up will include staff review of the winter response.
