City of Winona Statement on Federal Immigration Activity
After discussion Mayor Scott Sherman, City Manager Chad Ubl and Police Chief Tom Williams, would like to make the following statement.
The Winona Police Department is aware that federal immigration authorities have recently conducted activity within the City of Winona. We want to provide clarity to our community about our role and responsibilities.
The Winona Police Department enforces Minnesota state law and local ordinances. The federal immigration law is the responsibility of the federal government. Our officers do not participate in federal immigration enforcement activities, and we are not typically notified in advance when federal agencies conduct operations in our community.
Our primary responsibility is, and always will be, the safety and well-being of everyone in Winona. In limited situations, officers may be present to help maintain public safety, such as assisting with traffic control or ensuring peaceful conditions if gatherings occur. In these circumstances, our role is focused on de-escalation, safety, and maintaining order, not immigration enforcement.
If demonstrations or public gatherings take place, officers may respond to ensure activities remain lawful, to protect the safety of all involved, and to support the constitutional rights of individuals exercising their First Amendment freedoms.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is a federal law enforcement agency within the Department of Homeland Security. The Winona Police Department does not have authority over federal agencies and cannot direct or interfere with their operations. We would like to remind the public that obstructing federal law enforcement activity is unlawful.
We encourage community members who may observe federal enforcement activities to remain calm and peaceful. Please help keep streets and sidewalks accessible and follow any lawful instructions from police officers who may be present to ensure everyone's safety.
The Winona Police Department remains committed to serving our community with professionalism, respect, and a focus on public safety for all.