Lancaster County sheriff issues statement on President Trump’s immigration policies

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Lancaster County Sheriff Terry Wagner issued a statement Wednesday on President Donald Trump’s mass deportation plans.

The statement comes just days after Trump’s inauguration.  His administration has promised to deport people who are in the country illegally, with raids possibly starting this week.

Wagner’s statement:

“Following his inauguration on Monday, January 20th, President Trump invoked multiple executive orders, some of which pertain to immigration policies within our country. Keep in mind, Executive Orders pertain to agencies of the Executive Branch of the Federal Government, not state and local government.

The Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office acknowledges that immigration enforcement is the responsibility of federal law enforcement. With limited exceptions, (287(g) program) local law enforcement has no authority to enforce Immigration violations. The Sheriff’s Office is involved in several Task Forces with our Federal partners. Just as our Federal partners come to our assistance when needed, LSO will provide assistance if requested and will cooperate within the scope of our legal authority and responsibilities.”

Other local law enforcement agencies, like the Lincoln and Omaha police departments, have also addressed the potential mass deportations.

In an information video, Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer said officers “will not stop individuals to check their legal status.

“This is not the mission or the duty of the Omaha Police Department,” he said.

Lincoln Police Chief Michon Morrow also released a statement Tuesday, saying there is no reason to fear local law enforcement and officers will still help without questioning someone’s immigration status.

“LPD services are available to all who need assistance or want to report a crime,” she said in the statement. “We are dedicated to making sure everyone feels safe and treated with respect when they interact with LPD officers.”