In a recent issuance to residents, the Chief of Police for the Plymouth Police Department has clarified the agency's position concerning their role in assisting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents with apprehending immigrants, as stated on their official Facebook page. Abiding by Massachusetts state law, the department maintains it will not hold or arrest individuals based solely on their immigration status, nor will it impede the bail process for those who might also be questioned about their immigration positioning. However, they affirmed that they would execute any criminal judicial arrest warrant issued by a court of law that authorizes them to act.
The department has consistently been asked about its operations in collaboration with federal agencies, and in a statement aims to assuage the community's concerns, stating "it is unlawful for anyone, including local law enforcement agencies, to impede or obstruct a federal law enforcement officer in performing their duties, including during federal immigration enforcement". Subsequently, the announcement comes amid heightened tensions and a national discourse surrounding immigration enforcement, local authorities' involvement, and the balance between upholding public safety and fostering community trust, particularly in immigrant communities.
Despite these complexities, the Chief of Police insists that while the Plymouth Police Department will lend support to federal agencies upon request, such as assisting in apprehending criminal immigrants, its officers have taken an oath to uphold the Constitution and by extension, will protect and serve all community members impartially "regardless of a person's gender, race, religion, or immigration status."
The local police's approach reflects a recognition of the "severity and emotional impact this situation, has caused on national, state, and local levels," as the Chief has expressed a desire for residents to understand that the department's involvement with ICE is conducted within the boundaries of state law and the overarching framework of constitutional adherence. By reaffirming their position, the Plymouth Police Department hopes to clarify questions and resolve any uncertainty regarding their role in immigration enforcement.
