The Arlington Police Department’s mission is to build trust, reduce crime, and protect the constitutional rights of all community members, regardless of their immigration status. The Arlington Police Department does not enforce federal immigration law and we do not inquire about or investigate an individual’s immigration status if the sole purpose is to determine a person’s immigration status, whether the person is in the country lawfully or to facilitate a person’s detention or deportation by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

At the Arlington Police Department, we recognize that when people fear that interactions with our officers may lead to deportation, they are less likely to report crimes, seek help when needed, or serve as witnesses. This undermines public safety for everyone. 

Our Department’s focus remains preventing and solving crime in Arlington. 

We will continue to hold individuals who engage in criminal activity accountable but we will not participate in civil immigration enforcement which is the responsibility of federal agencies. The Arlington Police Department is a law enforcement agency and not an immigration enforcement agency. 

If any community member has questions or concerns, please call the Arlington Police Department at 781-643-1212 or 911 in an emergency situation. If you believe federal immigration officers are at your home and you feel unsafe, you can contact APD and ask responding officers to verify the legitimacy of the individuals at your door and confirm whether they have the appropriate legal documentation.

View the APD Policy and Procedures on Federal Immigration Laws

Additional Resources & Information

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Online Detainee Locator System

Know your Rights Ice Enforcement from MA Attorney General's Office

Know your rights - MIRA Coalition

Know Your Rights Cards | Red Card Orders | Immigrant Rights

Family Preparedness Packets | Mass Legal Services