Seaford Police Department Clarifies ICE Assistance
In a statement released Friday morning, the Seaford Police Department addressed their role in assisting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during an incident on Thursday morning.
“We understand in this highly politicized environment that whatever we do, some are going to think we were right and some are going to think we were wrong. So the most we can do for the community is to try and be as honest and transparent as possible. We do not participate in civil immigration enforcement. We take our responsibility for the safety and security of ALL of our community members very seriously. However, when situations involving federal partners turns into a criminal investigation, as it did yesterday, we are legally allowed to and will assist, as we would for any criminal investigation within our jurisdiction.”
Details of the Incident
On Thursday at 8:20 a.m., Seaford Police officers were called to aid ICE agents near a business at 22880 Sussex Highway. ICE was attempting to take a suspect into custody who allegedly resisted physically and fled, hiding under a nearby utility trailer.
Seaford officers secured the area and maintained the scene until additional federal agents arrived to take over.
Ongoing Coverage
WMDT will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available.
Summary
The Seaford Police Department emphasized their non-involvement in civil immigration enforcement but confirmed legally mandated assistance in a federal criminal investigation with ICE.
Author's summary: Seaford Police clarified their limited role in assisting ICE during a criminal investigation, stressing their commitment to community safety and transparency.