Lansdale Borough’s Police Policy Prioritizes Community Safety Over Immigration Enforcement
Lansdale officials unveiled a long-anticipated statement on Wednesday regarding the borough’s stance on immigration enforcement, affirming that local resources will not be used for federal immigration activities. This decision reflects a commitment to community trust and public safety.
Community Engagement Shaped Policy
Mayor Rachel Bollens stated that crafting the policy involved extensive consultations with community members, discussions with the borough’s attorney, and meetings with police leadership. “We have finally put together a statement regarding local law enforcement and immigration enforcement for the District of Lansdale,” she noted.
Commitment to Inclusivity and Safety
Bollens highlighted that the Lansdale Police Department’s core mission revolves around public safety rather than civilian immigration enforcement. “If you are an immigrant, please know that you are welcome here, that you matter here, and that we are happy to have you as a part of Lansdale,” she expressed. The borough’s approach aims to uphold the rights, dignity, and well-being of all individuals, regardless of their immigration status.
Building Trust Through Separation of Duties
By clearly separating local law enforcement from immigration enforcement, the borough seeks to foster trust and support a fair policing environment. Bollens stressed, “Effective and fair policing requires trust between law enforcement and the community, and we work every day to strengthen that trust.” She assured residents that the Lansdale Police Department would continue to offer the same high level of service to everyone, irrespective of their immigration status.
Clarifying Police Engagement with Immigration Authorities
In her address, Bollens detailed that the police department will not enforce federal immigration laws or inquire about immigration status during regular interactions. “We do not collect or share sensitive personal data, such as immigration status, unless mandated by state or federal law,” she stated. The policy explicitly outlines that the borough will refrain from participating in ICE’s 287(g) program and will only engage with federal immigration authorities under a valid judicial order.
Community Trust as a Foundation for Safety
Bolens emphasized that avoiding cooperation with ICE, except when legally required, is crucial for building trust. “These practices help ensure that immigrants and non-immigrants alike feel comfortable calling the police, reporting crimes, and seeking help when they need it,” she remarked. This message aimed to reassure the community that local law enforcement is a resource, not a threat.
Continued Development of Policy Language
The borough’s statement follows months of dialogue advocating for a welcoming policy that limits collaboration with immigration authorities. Council President Meg Currie Teo praised the initiative, expressing pride in Lansdale’s community-driven approach. Advocates like Jay Lee, Advocacy and Communications Manager at the Woori Center, welcomed the announcement but urged officials to ensure the final language of the policy is robust and free of loopholes, emphasizing the need for clarity and protection.
Lee pointed out the importance of a stable and inclusive community, highlighting Lansdale’s diverse population, which includes significant Asian and Latino communities. “When we protect each other, we protect the stability of the entire local economy and social fabric,” he stated, reinforcing the need for a policy that reflects these values.
Borough officials confirmed that the written policy is still under review and will undergo further refinement before formal adoption. After the meeting, Bollens expressed pride in the collaborative effort that has shaped the process, reiterating that all community voices contributed to this important policy. “Most importantly, we want our immigrant neighbors to know that they are valued, welcomed, and safe here,” she concluded.
