Salem residents,

It is important that I acknowledge and be responsive to community concerns regarding immigration enforcement. I recognize the anxiety or confusion some may feel due to the increased enforcement by federal agencies. I hope to ease that tension by clearly restating our long-standing policy on immigration.

First and foremost, the Salem Police Department does not enforce federal immigration laws and our officers will not ask anyone about their residency status. It is against Oregon law for local police to participate directly or indirectly in immigration enforcement without a judicial warrant.

This is also not the first time fears of Salem Police participation in immigration enforcement have risen in our community. Now, as always, we will stay true to our mission of protecting our entire community regardless of anyone's immigration status. This means that if you are a crime victim or witness, you can and should come forward without fear.

We have not received any recent requests for assistance from federal immigration officials, but if we do, we will deny, document, and properly report that request to the state.

If you feel that your rights regarding this law have been violated or if you have questions or concerns, I encourage you to reach out. We will take your concerns seriously and investigate any potential violations of law. Reports can also be made online directly to the Oregon Department of Justice.

Let’s not let this or any other issue jeopardize the trusting relationships we’ve worked so hard to build together. Rather, let’s turn this into an opportunity to increase shared understanding and trust in support of a safer community for everyone.

— Salem Police Chief Trevor Womack

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