Hoboken Police Will Not Comply With ICE 'Warrantless Raids,' Mayor Says

HOBOKEN, NJ — Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla said that if immigration agents conduct raids in this city, the police won't comply without a warrant.

On Thursday, according to Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, federal ICE agents entered a business to arrest undocumented immigrants. Those detained included a veteran who showed the officers his U.S. military identification.

The raid happened days after President Donald Trump took office. He had pledged to crack down on undocumented immigrants.

"I want to assure you that the Hoboken Police Department remains committed to the guidance provided by the New Jersey Attorney General: HPD will not cooperate with ICE if they come to our city without warrants signed by a federal judge,” Mayor Ravi Bhalla said Friday. “They will not assist in unlawfully detaining our community members. Our priority remains in ensuring the safety, dignity, and well-being of all our residents, regardless of their immigration status."

Bhalla also addressed "uncertain and frightening times."

Bhalla noted that most of the residents in Hoboken are legal citizens, but suggested that those who might not be to put together a family preparedness plan, and that residents check on and help their neighbors.

"The city’s social workers are actively collaborating with non-profits and local and state agencies to connect residents to available resources. If you or someone you know needs assistance, please reach out to Bianca Hoffer at bhoffer@hobokennj.gov or Lori Hetzel at lhetzel@hobokennj.gov," he said. “Additionally, my office and the Office of Constituent Services are here to help; you can reach us at 201-420-2000 ext. 1311 or email the Head of the Constituent Services Nora Martínez DeBenedetto at ndebenedetto@hobokennj.gov."

The city is planning an immigration rights seminar in March, he said.

Read the full message here.

READ MORE: ICE Raids Newark Business, Military Veteran Detained: Officials