Washington County, OR. — Public safety leaders in Washington County issued a joint statement reaffirming that local law enforcement does not participate in federal immigration enforcement and remains committed to serving all residents regardless of immigration status.
Officials emphasized that their responsibility is to enforce state and local laws—not federal immigration policy—and stated that agencies in the county do not collaborate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, do not engage in federal immigration operations, and do not inquire about a person’s immigration status. They noted that Oregon has been a sanctuary state for nearly four decades under state law.
The statement stressed that community safety depends on trust between residents and local law enforcement. Leaders warned that when victims or witnesses fear reporting crimes due to concerns about immigration consequences, offenders are less likely to be held accountable, creating broader public safety risks.
“No one should live in fear of calling the police,” the statement read, urging residents to report emergencies by calling 911 and to use the county’s non-emergency line, 503-629-0111, when appropriate. Officials said all calls are responded to with the same professionalism and care, regardless of a caller’s citizenship or documentation status.
Agencies concluded by reaffirming their commitment to fairness, inclusion, and protecting the rights of all people who live in Washington County.
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