Residents press Bladensburg council for action on ICE presence; police name bilingual liaison

Public comment at the July 13 meeting focused heavily on immigration enforcement and community trust. Multiple residents urged the town to take immediate action after sightings and interactions with federal agents in town parking areas.

Anna Greenstone (S13) and others described heightened fear in the community and asked for a named town liaison, a public summary of existing protections, and interim actions prior to a September follow‑up. "We'd like to know, like, what is your goal for when that [policy summary] will be complete?" Greenstone asked.

Town officials responded that municipal authority is limited and that certain state and county laws affect how local police may act, but committed to concrete steps. Chief Friskorn (S8) explained the department's limited operational role with ICE and said the town does not transport detainees or assist in civil immigration enforcement. "We don't want anybody to get hurt...we don't help them serve immigration civil warrants," the chief said. He added the department will intervene if civil rights violations or criminal conduct occur.

Staff announced two immediate responses: (1) appointment of Sergeant Ramirez as a bilingual police department liaison for immigration concerns, and (2) preparation of an informational one‑pager for distribution online explaining how residents can report suspected agent activity and what the police will do. Senator Augustine's staff (Vanessa, S12, and Helena, S12) attended and offered support and follow‑up at the state level.

Residents and council agreed to continue dialogue with a planned August meeting to review steps being taken and to coordinate on legal limits and protections. No change to law enforcement authority or town code was enacted at the meeting.