Immigration and Non-Enforcement Policy

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Florence Police Department’s Community Message on Immigration and Non-Enforcement Policy

FLORENCE, OR – The Florence Police Department has received a few inquiries regarding immigration related enforcement at the local level in light of recent national events. We feel it is important for our community to understand how we interact with the public on this topic. The Florence Police Department does not enforce federal immigration laws and we will continue to follow State laws regarding immigration. Oregon Revised Statute 181A.820 states that “No law enforcement agency of the State of Oregon or of any political subdivision of the state shall use agency moneys, equipment or personnel for the purpose of detecting or apprehending persons whose only violation of law is that they are persons of foreign citizenship present in the United States in violation of federal immigration laws.”

The City of Florence Police Department’s Policy Manual has a policy in place that states “this department does not participate in routine immigration investigation and enforcement activities.” And “members shall treat all individuals equally and without regard to race, color or national origin in any way that would violate the United States or Oregon Constitutions.” The City is committed to uphold this policy and Oregon State law and to treat each person with their due respect and dignity.