Mayor: Omaha Police Will Not Patrol for Immigration Status

Mayor Omaha Police Will Not Patrol for Immigration Status

OMAHA, Nebraska – Noting community concerns about the Trump administration’s immigration policies, Mayor Jean Stothert’s office confirmed Monday that Omaha authorities will not shift their public safety focus to immigration.

President Trump said in his inaugural address on Monday that his administration would quickly implement deportations, prompting thunderous applause from those in attendance inside the United States Capitol Rotunda.

“We will do it at a level nobody has ever seen before,” he said.

While the president’s promise has yet to be fulfilled, Stothert’s office stated that the Omaha Police Department would continue to follow the policy outlined in a February 2017 letter from Stothert and OPD Chief Todd Schmaderer, with no changes. Both are expected to provide additional information about the policy during a news conference at 2 p.m. Tuesday.

“Please be assured that Omaha Police officers will not approach individuals to inquire about their legal status. This is not the Omaha Police Department’s mission or duty,” the letter reads in part.

No one calling 911 for emergency assistance will be asked about their legal status.

“Whether you are the victim or a crime or a witness to a crime, you can be confident you can seek help from our police department without fear.”

Those who commit a crime, however, will be subject to federal policies.

“In those instances, the Omaha Police Deparment will cooperate with our federal partners, only as outlined in our policies,” according to the letter.

Source