Immigration Enforcement Frequently Asked Questions

No, the Gresham Police Department does not enforce federal immigration laws. Oregon law (ORS 181A.822) clearly states that no law enforcement agency in the state can use its funding, equipment, or personnel for the purposes of enforcing federal immigration laws. The policy of the Gresham Police Department is aligned with Oregon law.  

No, we encourage crime reporting and cooperation in the investigation of criminal activity. It is our policy and practice to recognize the dignity of all people, regardless of their national origin or immigration status.  

Officers may ask about a person’s immigration status if it’s part of investigating a crime in the community or required by state or federal law to confirm someone’s identity. However, these inquiries cannot be for the purpose of enforcing federal immigration laws.

When making an arrest and an officer reasonably believes the person is a foreign national, the officer may inquire about the person’s citizenship and advise them of their right to have the nearest appropriate embassy notified. However, the officer will first advise them that they have the right to refuse to disclose their nationality, citizenship, or immigration status.

An exception also exists if a victim or witness might qualify for an immigration visa or protection for cooperating with law enforcement during a criminal investigation.  

The federal government has the legal authority to operate in Gresham. The Gresham Police Department cannot interfere with their work.

If you ever feel your rights are being violated or that you or someone you know is facing unjust immigration enforcement, the State of Oregon provides a hotline and online resources for reporting such incidents.

Report a sanctuary promise violation to the State of Oregon.

If an officer determines that the individual is a federal law-enforcement officer actively engaged in authorized federal duties, enforcing a state traffic infraction at that moment could interfere with those duties. Under federal law, states cannot apply their laws in a way that interferes with a federal officer performing authorized duties. As a result, a citation would not be issued in that circumstance.  

Our department does not participate in immigration investigations and enforcement activities. However, a person that is lawfully contacted or detained and determined to have an arrest warrant issued by a federal judge (not an ICE agent or ICE supervisor) for a criminal violation (not civil) of federal immigration laws, may be turned over to federal immigration authorities.  

Share only verified information and check facts before spreading reports. This helps avoid unnecessary fear and stress in the community.  

Our focus is on keeping the community safe and building trust with all residents, regardless of immigration status.