Township seeks clarity on local policing procedures after county 'sanctuary' designation

Supervisor Cindy Miller on Jan. 28 asked Township law enforcement to clarify how officers should handle stops that reveal immigration issues, citing Northampton County’s 2020 executive order and concern about officers being tied up transporting people to county facilities.

Sergeant Mirabile said the department follows existing procedures: officers run checks, contact federal agents, and either relinquish custody to federal authorities or send a detainer to the County prison. "The Department would follow the current procedure that is in place," Mirabile said. Jon Roth added that immigration matters often require interagency checks and can take time, sometimes an hour or two during a traffic stop.

Miller said she had contacted U.S. Rep. Mackenzie’s office to learn if municipalities would be affected should the county remain a sanctuary jurisdiction and noted advocacy activity, including a letter to the county from America First Legal. Several supervisors and public commenters expressed concern about officer safety, potential time spent on transports to Easton, and whether federal changes could increase local involvement.

Attorney David Backenstoe said there is no additional action for the Township beyond enforcing Pennsylvania law: "Lehigh Township is not involved in that whatsoever other than enforcing the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. If there are detainers or bench warrants issued, our police will honor them." He added that policies are ultimately constrained by state and federal law and urged supervisors to direct statutory questions to state or federal legislators.

The Board did not adopt new local policy during the meeting; members said they will monitor guidance from legislators and the county and consider follow-up if federal or county directives change.