Pat-Med Won't Authorize Feds On Grounds Without Warrant, Court Order

PATCHOGUE, NY — In the wake of news that President Donald Trump will allow immigration agents to go inside schools, Patchogue-Medford School District officials issued a statement explaining their stance.

"Consistent with New York State law and guidance, federal law, and district policy, the district does not authorize law enforcement agencies to access school grounds for the purpose of detaining, arresting, or questioning unless such access is related to an alleged crime occurring on school grounds, or pursuant to a warrant or a court order," the district said. "To the extent such a request to enter school grounds is made, the district requests that proper legal documentation be made available so that the district's legal counsel can evaluate whether such a request is lawful and appropriate for district compliance."

The district has provided protocols and guidelines to administrators at all of its schools regarding how to proceed if a federal agency officer arrives at a school. The District is continuing its discussions on this matter as additional information becomes available.

The district is continuing its discussions on this matter as additional information becomes available, officials said.

Earlier this week, Riverhead school officials said they would protect students and would use their legal counsel to validate any requests for access to the grounds.