Recent events across the country have brought a multitude of concerns and questions about the role of local police agencies in federal immigration laws.
First and foremost, the collective mission of local police agencies is to keep everyone in our communities safe. Local police officers do not have jurisdiction to enforce federal immigration laws. We do not ask about immigration status when responding to calls for service, conducting traffic stops or assisting residents unless it is a necessary part of a criminal investigation. We do not contact, stop, search or detain an individual based solely on their ethnicity and race to check immigration status.
The primary mission of all local police agencies has been and will always be public safety — preventing crime, protecting victims and building trust. No one should feel afraid to call the police for help, report a crime or cooperate with an investigation. When people are afraid, the entire community is put at risk, and it greatly reduces our ability to protect and serve you.
While some may disagree with current federal immigration activities, there has never been a more important time to foster a spirit of mutual respect and cooperation between law enforcement officers and the communities we serve. Local law enforcement officers remain committed to serving all residents with fairness, dignity and respect.
Open communication and trust are essential to keeping our communities safe. When you have a question or concern about law enforcement operations, I encourage you to stop by your local police department and talk with a police officer. Trust me, we are a better source of information than those on social media.
Jason C. Gagorik
McKees Rocks