Attorney General’s Office Press Release:
Amid continued concerns from local residents and elected officials, Attorney General Todd Rokita has filed a civil investigative request against the Seymour and South Bend Police Departments seeking information on whether their immigration policies comply with state law. CID) was issued.
“We are working to ensure that local governments comply with the law,” Attorney General Rokita said. “We put Hoosiers first, not illegal aliens.
Attorney General Rokita said in the CID that he is seeking information about the immigration-related communications, cooperation, and enforcement policies of both police departments.
Indiana law limits the attorney general to the investigation and enforcement of local governments that have policies that restrict or restrict communication or cooperation with federal immigration authorities or the enforcement of federal immigration law.
Attorney General Rokita has directed Seymour and South Bend police departments to provide all documents related to his investigation by November 8, 2024.
“Failure to comply with the CID may result in legal action,” Attorney General Rokita said. “If the documentation produced indicates that any police department has a record of illegal immigration policy, we will take reasonable steps to ensure compliance with state law.”
In addition to issuing CIDs, Attorney General Rokita is currently suing the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department for refusing to reverse its illegal immigration policies, and recently sent letters of demand to officials in Lake and St. Joseph counties, which have failed. He warned of imminent legal action if this happens. Comply with state law.
Earlier this year, Attorney General Rokita sent similar letters to East Chicago, Gary, and West Lafayette city officials, who responded to these notices and worked to reverse their illegal immigration policies to comply with state law.
Attorney General Rokita said his office will continue evaluating other municipalities.
Response from Seymour City Attorney Christina Engleking:
“The Seymour Police Department and its officers are dedicated to fulfilling their duties and oath of office. They relentlessly support the Constitution of the United States and the State of Indiana, and serve their communities faithfully and impartially. SPD There is a long history of cooperation with federal immigration authorities and sharing information and resources with federal partners on accusations that SPD violates Indian Code 5-2-18.2-3 or Indian Code 5-2-18.2-4. There is no legal or factual basis to support this. SPD looks forward to demonstrating compliance with federal and state law and will continue to serve the people of Seymour.”
