HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-02-26 Public Comment - A. Smith - ICE_BPD From: Alex Smith
To: Bozeman Public Comment
Subject: [EXTERNAL]ICE/BPD
Date: Thursday,July 2,2026 11:55:57 AM
Attachments: image.Dng
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Hey all!
I've heard that Bozeman Police were escorting ICE vehicles this morning and were set up at
their hotel. From the official statement issued earlier this year(part of the snip attached) it was
made clear that BPD was not going to be involved with ICE. Based on this morning it seems
like this isn't the case and perhaps they were not telling the public the truth? Would you be
able to comment on what the city/BPD's actual stance on the issue is? If it has changed from
the initial stance could you please clarify for us residents so we know where the support lies?
Thank you!!
Bozeman Police Department
January 30 0
The City of Bozeman and the Bozeman Police Department(BPD)are monitoring events taking
place around the country related to federal immigration enforcement.We,like many of our
residents,are concerned by how it could impact our community,trust in public safety,and the
safety of our law enforcement professionals.During these tense times,we wanted to remind
residents that we're committed to keeping Bozeman safe and protecting the constitutional rights
of every person who lives,works,and visits our city.
While BPD has worked with local,state,and federal law enforcement partners for decades to
address drug trafficking,child exploitation and other serious crimes,the BPD does not have a
287(g)agreement with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement.These agreements delegate
state and local law enforcement officers the authority to perform specified immigration officer
functions under ICE's direction and oversight.
The BPD is not involved in civil immigration enforcement.We will not assist or participate in civil
immigration enforcement,nor will BPD take extra steps to determine an individual's immigration
status.If federal agencies operate within Bozeman solely related to federal immigration
enforcement,BPD will prioritize responding to ensure public safety. We cannot interfere with
federal agencies lawfully performing their duties,but it is our duty to ensure public safety.
The public can expect BPD to continue to treat everyone we contact equally and with respect
regardless of immigration status. We will continue to investigate and enforce Bozeman municipal
codes and the laws of the State of Montana.We will warn,cite or arrest based solely on the facts