With recent national attention on immigration enforcement, the Madras Police Department seeks to provide clarity regarding state law restrictions on immigration enforcement in Oregon.
The federal government has initiated immigration enforcement actions in major cities across the United States. We recognize that such actions may cause fear and uncertainty within our community. We want to reassure all residents that the Madras Police Department is committed to serving and protecting everyone, regardless of their actual or perceived national origin or immigration status.
The Madras Police Department adheres to the U.S. Constitution, Oregon law, and department policies. Oregon is a sanctuary state, and Oregon law (ORS 181A.820) specifically prohibits local law enforcement from engaging in civil immigration matters. Local law enforcement agencies, including the Madras Police Department, are not permitted to participate in immigration enforcement without a judicial warrant. Immigration enforcement is solely the responsibility of the Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Our mission is to enhance public safety through trust and strong community partnerships. We do not enforce federal immigration laws, nor do we collaborate with ICE on immigration enforcement matters. Oregon law explicitly prevents local agencies from honoring ICE detainers or holding individuals based on immigration status alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Madras Police Department enforce federal immigration laws?
A: No. Oregon law prohibits local law enforcement from using resources to find or arrest individuals solely for immigration violations.
Q: Will officers check my immigration status if I report a crime?
A: No. Immigration or citizenship status is not a factor when reporting crimes. All residents, regardless of status, should feel safe in reporting crimes without fear of immigration consequences.
Q: Can I call the Madras Police Department if ICE agents question me?
A: While ICE has legal authority to operate in Madras, the Madras Police Department does not interfere with their operations. If you believe your rights are being violated, Oregon provides a hotline and resources for reporting concerns.
Q: Will the Madras Police Department hand over undocumented individuals to ICE?
A: No. Local law enforcement does not have the authority to arrest or detain individuals based on immigration status or ICE requests.
Q: What kind of warrants does the Madras Police Department enforce?
A: We enforce judicial arrest warrants for criminal activity recorded in the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database. We do not enforce ICE administrative warrants.
Q: What is the Madras Police Department’s policy regarding cooperation with ICE?
A: Department Policy 413 provides clear guidance that our focus is on public safety, not federal immigration enforcement.
Q: How can I help prevent misinformation?
A: Share only verified information to reduce fear and confusion in the community.
The Madras Police Department remains committed to the safety and well-being of all residents. We encourage community members to reach out with any concerns or questions.
If you ever feel your rights are being violated or that you or someone you know is facing unjust immigration enforcement, the state of Oregon provides a hotline and online resources for reporting such incidents.
Reporting Sanctuary Promise Violations to the Hotline – Oregon Department of Justice