Res. No. 274
Title
Resolution calling upon Department of Homeland Security to prohibit United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from identifying themselves as police officers while conducting immigration enforcement activities in New York City.
Body
By Council Member Menchaca
Whereas, New York City is home to 3.3 million immigrants, making up approximately 40 percent of the City's total population; and
Whereas, For decades the New York Police Department (NYPD) has worked to gain the trust, respect and cooperation of all of the City's residents, including undocumented immigrants; and
Whereas, This hard-earned trust was established by implementing policies that clearly demonstrate that the NYPD serves and protects all New Yorkers equally; and
Whereas, Pursuant to Executive Orders 35 and 41 of 2003, law enforcement officers may not inquire about a person's immigration status unless investigating illegal activity other than status as an undocumented individual and may not inquire about the immigration status of crime victims, witnesses, or others who contact the police seeking assistance; and
Whereas, The NYPD has publicly reinforced their commitment to neighborhood policing and maintaining strong ties with immigrant communities throughout the City; and
Whereas, NYPD Commissioner James P. O'Neill has repeatedly stated that everyone who comes into contact with the NYPD should feel comfortable identifying themselves or seeking assistance without hesitation, anxiety or fear, regardless of their immigration status, as NYPD does not initiate police action with the sole objective of determining a person's immigration status; and
Whereas, There are multiple reports that ICE agents operating in New York City have represented themselves as "police officers" in the course of conducting immigration enforcement activities, such as home raids; and
Whereas, When ICE agents represent themselves as "police,...
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