Council agrees to let police pursue ICE task-force memorandum of understanding
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Summary
The police chief described joining an ICE task-force model that provides training, grants for equipment and possible vehicle funding; after questions about staffing and public perception the council approved pursuing an MOU and training.
The council authorized the police department to pursue a memorandum of understanding with an ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) task force after a presentation explaining the model and its benefits.
The police representative said officers would complete online training and, when an officer investigating a separate crime has probable cause that a person may be in the United States illegally, the task-force process allows the officer to verify immigration status and coordinate with ICE. He described potential grant benefits including equipment and vehicle funding and said ICE would handle administrative warrants and subsequent actions.
“If they are charged with another crime, so for instance, a DUI … I can verify that,” the presenter said, describing how local officers would work with ICE in cases that begin as criminal investigations. He added that ICE will not direct officers to conduct fishing expeditions and that the program requires probable cause linked to another criminal offense.
Council members asked about staffing impacts and liability when officers are temporarily assigned to task-force duties. The presenter said the department would maintain coverage and that ICE grants often cover overtime and vehicle support in some cases.
After discussion the council moved, seconded and approved the department pursuing the MOU and training. The police chief said he will complete the MOU in coordination with the mayor and notify the council of next steps.
