Portland Police Chief Bob Day is addressing immigration enforcement in the following letter to the community:
Dear Community Members:
Like many of you, I am closely monitoring reports of immigration enforcement efforts beginning across the country and engaging in direct conversations with our culturally specific advisory councils that represent many of our immigrant families.
It is paramount to recognize the fear and uncertainty this creates in our immigrant communities. I want everyone to feel safe and protected, which is why it is important to understand that the Portland Police Bureau does not engage in immigration enforcement as outlined in PPB Directive 810.10: https://www.portland.gov/policies/police-directives/arrest-detentions-court-0800/081010-bureau-contact-members-immigrant . Simply put, we have no legal authority to do so.
I am not alone in my concern for our immigrant communities. Mayor Wilson recently discussed Portland's commitment to being a sanctuary city at City Council and the Governor also pledged that our sanctuary state status remains unchanged. Also, Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield demonstrated his commitment to protecting our immigrant communities by challenging the President's executive order ending birthright citizenship.
I take great pride in PPB's community engagement and continuous efforts over the years. We have long-standing relationships within the immigrant communities and Portland-based organizations that advocate and serve these families. In addition, members of the Police Bureau are continuing outreach efforts to build relationships, especially in communities that may be distrustful of police.
In closing, PPB remains committed to protecting, serving and supporting all residents and community members of the City of Portland, regardless of their actual or perceived national origin or immigration status.
Chief Day
The following is a link to the community letter and FAQ:
https://www.portland.gov/police/news/2025/1/28/letter-community-chief-bob-day