Information from the City of Wheaton Regarding Federal Immigration Enforcement Activity

The City of Wheaton and Wheaton Police Department are aware of recent U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) activity in Wheaton. We have received numerous inquiries about federal immigration operations within the city and the level of communication and cooperation between federal and local authorities.

We understand that federal activity in our area can cause uncertainty and raise concerns in our community, and we would like for the Wheaton community to understand the state laws surrounding federal immigration operations. The Wheaton Police Department adheres to all Illinois laws put in place by the TRUST Act, which prohibits our police officers from participating, supporting, or assisting in any capacity in federal immigration operations. For more information about the Illinois TRUST Act, please see this information from the Illinois Attorney General regarding law enforcement and the Illinois TRUST Act.

Federal authorities have communicated to state and county leadership they will be conducting operations in the greater Chicagoland area with no further specifics. Under federal law, federal agents can operate anywhere in the state, including private property, with proper legal process.

Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all residents in our community remains our highest priority. The public is encouraged to call 911 to report any unlawful activity or public safety concerns to the police department.