Arlington Limits Police Cooperation with ICE in Some Cases

Arlington, Virginia The Arlington County Board has approved a measure that limits the circumstances in which local police can cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The new policy, passed [Date of Vote if available, otherwise omit], restricts police from assisting ICE with immigration enforcement unless there is a direct threat to public safety or a warrant issued for a specific individual.

Supporters of the measure argue that it will foster greater trust between the police and the community, encouraging more people to report crimes without fear of deportation. They also contend that it allows police to focus on local crime and prioritize resources effectively.

However, the decision has drawn criticism from some Virginia officials. They argue that limiting cooperation with ICE could endanger public safety by potentially protecting individuals who have committed violent crimes and are in the country illegally. Critics have cited specific cases where lack of cooperation with ICE allegedly led to negative outcomes.

The debate highlights the ongoing tension between local control and federal immigration enforcement, with Arlington joining other jurisdictions that have adopted similar policies.