Asbury Park Police Director John B. Hayes said on Apr. 17 that the police department was not involved in a recent incident near City Hall involving federal immigration authorities.
The statement comes after community concern about the event, which Hayes acknowledged has alarmed many residents. The issue highlights the boundaries between local law enforcement and federal agencies when it comes to immigration enforcement.
“The Asbury Park Police Department is aware of the incident that occurred near City Hall and I understand why it has alarmed so many in our community. I want to be clear: our officers were not involved in this incident and had no advance knowledge that it was going to occur. I also want to be transparent about what our officers can and cannot do under New Jersey law,” Hayes said.
Hayes explained that determining whether any federal action was lawful is a matter for the courts, not local police. He added, “under the Attorney General’s Immigrant Trust Directive, the Asbury Park Police Department does not assist ICE in the enforcement of federal civil immigration law, including the execution of immigration administrative warrants and arrests. Our officers do not participate in federal immigration enforcement actions, and they cannot interfere with them either.” According to Hayes, these limitations are set by state law rather than by individual departments or cities.
Hayes said that maintaining trust between local police officers and all members of the community is essential: “That trust is something this department takes seriously, and it is not something we are willing to compromise.” He emphasized ongoing commitment to public safety for everyone living in Asbury Park regardless of their background or place of birth.
For more information about rights under New Jersey law regarding these issues, residents are encouraged by Hayes to visit www.njoag.gov/trust.
