Local Police Not Involved In ICE Raid On Friday: Peekskill Mayor

PEEKSKILL, NY — Mayor Vivian C. McKenzie confirmed in an address that ICE agents conducted an operation in the city early Friday morning.

McKenzie said Peekskill Police Department Chief Leo Dylewski was informed by authorities that federal agencies, including the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), were in the city looking for one specific individual with a criminal record.

"Our Police Department had no role in this operation," McKenzie said. "Residents should be aware that the Peekskill Police Department's own regulations, consistent with New York State and Westchester County law, prohibit members of the police department from engaging in law enforcement activities solely for the purpose of enforcing federal immigration law, unless required to do so by a judicial warrant or other federal law."

McKenzie said that the department's policies comply with all federal, state and local laws.

"What's most important to me as mayor and as a lifelong resident of Peekskill is that each and every one of our residents regardless of race, creed or national origin know they are safe in our City," McKenzie said in her address. "Immigrants are an important part of this city.We are a community that values diversity and the rights of all people. We all share a common humanity that must be respected and valued."

The mayor shared resources for those who are concerned about the possible ramifications of an increase in enforcement actions by federal agents.

The mayor directed the community to find more information about rights by visiting the Immigrant Legal Resource Center. She also suggested that those interested in helping others understand their rights, look into the red card on their website.

"As your mayor, I sincerely hope ICE remains focused on enforcement actions related to violent and serious criminals harming our city, not neighbors who are contributing and law-abiding members of our community," the mayor told constituents.