‘We need to stay in our lane.’ Indy police union backs chief’s immigration statement: Report

Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Chief Chris Bailey announced that the department will not enforce federal immigration laws, focusing instead on addressing local violent crime. Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) president Rick Snyder supported the decision, emphasizing that immigration enforcement is outside local and state police duties. Snyder highlighted the need for officers to concentrate on Indianapolis’ crime issues, not federal immigration actions, which could strain already thin staffing levels and harm community relations, reported Indystar.com.

Bailey assured that IMPD doesn’t inquire about immigration status during routine investigations and is committed to serving all residents regardless of status. Snyder expressed concerns about Indiana legislation like Senate Bill 172, which could penalize officers for not cooperating with immigration enforcement. He stressed that local police should not become scapegoats in immigration debates, though FOP does not advocate for obstructing federal immigration efforts.

Amid concerns over recent presidential pardons linked to violence against police, Snyder noted that the FOP’s national headquarters had endorsed President Trump’s campaign in 2024 for his support of law enforcement. However, both the FOP and IMPD reaffirmed their focus on maintaining clear roles in law enforcement and fostering community trust.