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Upper Merion clarifies police role: "Police do not enforce federal immigration laws"
Summary
Chair Tina Garzillo read a prepared Township statement saying Upper Merion Police do not participate in ICE's 287 program, will not inquire about immigration status during routine contacts, and will not share victim or witness address information with federal immigration officials.
At the start of the meeting Chairperson Tina Garzillo read a prepared statement to clarify Township practice on immigration enforcement. "Upper Merion Police Department does not enforce federal immigration laws," she said, adding that immigration enforcement is handled by the federal government and that the Township does not participate in ICE's 287 program. "Our main priority is to protect the safety, health, and well-being of everyone in our community, regardless of immigration status," Garzillo said.
Garzillo also stated the Police Department will not share address information about crime victims or witnesses with federal immigration officials and that officers "will not inquire about immigration status during police contacts or when residents seek access to other Township programs and services." During public comment a resident later asked whether staff would face disciplinary action for violating that policy; Township Manager Anthony Hamaday pointed to the Township's anti‑discrimination policy and said violations would be subject to disciplinary review.
