IMMIGRATION INFORMATION
The Thornton Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all members of our community, regardless of immigration status. We want to be clear: our department does not conduct immigration raids or participate in deportation efforts.
Our primary responsibility is to serve and protect our community by responding to emergencies, preventing crime, and building trust with those we serve. While we may collaborate with federal agencies in situations that impact public safety, our focus remains on keeping our city safe for everyone.
We understand that there may be concerns, and we encourage you to reach out if you have any questions. Our department remains committed to serving and protecting everyone in our community, ensuring that all individuals feel safe coming forward to report crimes or seek help without fear of immigration-related consequences.
The Thornton Police Department is dedicated to building trust within our community and fostering open communication. Our policy underscores our commitment to serving and protecting everyone in Thornton, balancing our responsibility to enforce the law with our unwavering commitment to fair and equitable treatment for all.
Key Principles of our Immigration Enforcement Policy
Protecting Victims and Witnesses
The Thornton Police Department is committed to protecting all members of our community. We understand that some individuals may be hesitant to contact law enforcement due to fear or concerns about their immigration status. We want to assure everyone that reporting a crime or cooperating with an investigation will not automatically lead to inquiries about immigration status or deportation proceedings. Our priority is public safety, and we encourage all victims and witnesses to come forward, regardless of immigration status.
While officers may request identification, we do not specifically investigate immigration status. The Thornton Police Department is dedicated to treating everyone fairly and upholding the constitutional rights of all individuals. Our focus is on investigating crimes and ensuring the safety and well-being of our community.
Prohibition of Civil Immigration Detentions
Thornton Police Department officers will not detain individuals solely for civil violations of federal immigration law. Detention will only occur when there is a valid criminal arrest warrant for crimes other than immigration law violations.
Support for Victims of Crime (U and T Visas)
We recognize the importance of U and T visas for victims of certain crimes and human trafficking, and we will cooperate fully as required by law, fulfilling all necessary reporting obligations.
Limited Assistance to Federal Immigration Officials
Our assistance to federal immigration officials is limited to ensuring public safety while they are performing their lawful duties. We do not participate in broader immigration enforcement actions.
Balanced Information Sharing
While we comply with federal law (8 USC § 1373) regarding information sharing, our primary focus remains on local law enforcement matters. We do not hold individuals in Thornton Police facilities. Individuals detained on valid arrest warrants or probable cause affidavits are transported to the Adams County Jail for detention. We do not notify federal authorities of detention as that is not the responsibility of the Thornton Police Department.
Carefully Regulated Criminal Immigration Detentions
Detentions related to criminal violations of federal immigration law will only occur when there is reasonable suspicion or probable cause, and are subject to strict protocols, including supervisory review. We do not detain individuals based solely on their immigration status. A valid arrest warrant for other crimes is required. We prioritize efficient law enforcement and avoid unnecessary detentions for minor offenses.