Cherry Hill reaffirms dedication to New Jersey directive limiting cooperation with federal immigration agencies.

In a reaffirmation of its dedication to a New Jersey directive that restricts local law enforcement’s role in federal immigration enforcement, Cherry Hill officials emphasized their commitment to the Immigrant Trust Directive during a township council meeting on Tuesday. This directive, established by the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General in 2018, aims to foster a sense of safety among immigrants in the state by limiting how police engage with federal immigration authorities.

Cherry Hill Police Captain Christopher Wernig stated that the department is resolutely committed to adhering to the guidance issued by the state, which includes significant limitations on the involvement of local police with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The Immigrant Trust Directive specifically prohibits law enforcement officers from stopping, questioning, arresting, searching, or detaining individuals solely on the suspicion of undocumented status. Furthermore, officers are restricted from inquiring about a person’s immigration status unless it pertains to a criminal investigation.

Additionally, the directive ensures that New Jersey police officers are forbidden from participating in ICE’s civil immigration enforcement operations and from granting ICE access to local law enforcement resources. Correctional officers are also required to comply with these guidelines, which include prohibiting ICE from interviewing detained individuals unless they have been informed of their rights and have provided written consent.

The directive was designed to promote trust between immigrant communities and law enforcement, thereby enhancing community safety for all residents. The New Jersey Attorney General’s Office stated that the 2018 initiative encourages residents to interact without fear of deportation or immigration inquiries. The policy’s enforcement aligns with broader public sentiment in Cherry Hill, where some residents expressed gratitude for the department’s adherence to the Immigrant Trust Directive while others called for increased cooperation with federal authorities.

Concerns surrounding immigration enforcement in the region have intensified recently, particularly in light of a fugitive investigation by U.S. Marshals that led to the apprehension of a 25-year-old Honduran man accused of serious crimes. This incident raised alarms among local residents about the presence and actions of federal law enforcement.

The issue of immigration enforcement has become increasingly prominent in New Jersey, with figures indicating an alarming rise in detentions. In the preceding month, the state witnessed a staggering 358 detentions, indicative of a more than 450% increase from the previous month, which came during a period characterized by heightened enforcement activities associated with the Trump administration. In contrast, data from the Biden administration indicated an average of 19 detentions per day.

In response to evolving public concerns, Cherry Hill’s mayor acknowledged the national climate surrounding immigration issues and expressed understanding toward community apprehensions about federal law enforcement’s increased activities within the township. As the community continues to navigate the complexities of immigration enforcement, the local police department remains committed to policies that prioritize the safety and trust of all residents.

This ongoing dialogue and adherence to the Immigrant Trust Directive exemplify the challenges and responsibilities that local law enforcement agencies face in balancing public safety with the rights of all community members.