The Maybrook Police Department has recently adopted a new general order, entitled ‘Disclosure of Status Information’. The purpose of this directive is to establish the police department’s policy and procedures concerning citizenship status and the enforcement of federal immigration laws.

“Diversity is what makes the Village of Maybrook a special place to live,” said Maybrook Mayor Dennis Leahy. “This new policy will serve as an example of the commitment and testament to our community that its police department will make every effort to respect the dignity of all individuals who both reside and visit our village.”

Per the general order, police officers shall not inquire about a person’s immigration status unless investigating criminal activity. In addition, it shall be the policy of the department not to inquire about the immigration status of crime victims, witnesses or others who call or approach the police seeking assistance. Officers and other members of the Village of Maybrook Police Department shall continue to cooperate with federal authorities in investigating and apprehending illegal immigrants suspected of criminal activity.

Nothing in the general order shall The general order also states that no person shall be detained solely on the belief that he or she is not present legally in the United States or that he or she has committed a civil immigration violation. There is no general obligation for a police officer to contact the U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) regarding any person, unless that person is arrested on a criminal charge.