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LINCOLN — President Donald Trump has vowed to crack down on undocumented immigrants already in the United States by deporting them. In response, Lincoln Police Chief Michon Morrow says they will continue to enforce city ordinances and state law with equal treatment, regardless of an individual’s immigration status.
“We want to assure the community that filing a police report or accessing law enforcement services is not dependent on citizenship or immigration status and can be done so without fear,” Morrow says. “LPD services are available to all who need assistance or want to report a crime. We are dedicated to making sure everyone feels safe and treated with respect when they interact with LPD officers.”
Morrow also reminded community members that immigration enforcement remains a function of federal law enforcement. She says it’s is not the role of LPD to participate in arrests or transportation of those placed into custody for immigration violations.
“The Lincoln Police Department does not contact individuals to determine immigration status and does not have the authority to enforce immigration laws,” Morrow says. “Similarly, LPD does not make inquiries regarding immigration status in the course of routine investigations, as outlined in the department’s policy on unlawful or improper bias in public safety.”
Morrow says past and future LPD cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement at any immigration enforcement activities is to ensure the safety of all involved and to assist with communication to affected families.
Morrow says the continued growth of strong and trusting relationships is the key to their success. “LPD continues to engage in regular and ongoing community partnerships with cultural centers in Lincoln, businesses and schools and other diverse groups. We remain a community-based policing organization.”
