The new head of the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) stated on Wednesday that he is preparing to protect immigrants in anticipation of President-elect Donald Trump’s second term, which is expected to include mass deportations of undocumented immigrants.
Trump’s Immigration Agenda
Immigration has been a central issue for Trump since his 2016 presidential campaign. He has repeatedly promised to deport millions of undocumented immigrants. After defeating Vice President Kamala Harris in last month’s election, Trump announced plans to appoint immigration hard-liners Tom Homan, former acting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) director, and Stephen Miller, his former senior adviser, to key positions in his administration.
Los Angeles Takes Action as a Sanctuary City
In response to Trump’s stance on immigration, Los Angeles officially declared itself a sanctuary city last month. The move prohibits city resources from being used for immigration enforcement. This decision followed Trump’s election victory and was supported by Los Angeles City Councilmember Nithya Raman, who helped introduce the ordinance.
The LAPD has long adhered to a policy known as Special Order 40, enacted in 1979, which prevents officers from stopping or detaining individuals based solely on their immigration status. Jim McDonnell, the new LAPD chief, emphasized this commitment to protecting immigrants. McDonnell, a seasoned law enforcement officer and former sheriff, was appointed by Mayor Karen Bass in October and sworn in last month.
LAPD’s Commitment to Public Trust
McDonnell stressed that enforcing immigration laws would undermine the LAPD’s primary mission: building trust within the community. He explained that such actions could deter immigrants from reporting crimes or coming forward as witnesses, out of fear of being detained or deported.
Collaboration with Consulates to Protect Immigrants
In preparation for possible mass deportations, McDonnell revealed that the LAPD is working with the consulates of Mexico and other Central American countries. The aim is to develop a plan that ensures the safety of immigrants. Part of this plan includes a video that will be shared with the immigrant community to clarify the LAPD’s policies and alleviate concerns about potential deportations.
McDonnell acknowledged the importance of the situation, saying the department is “cognizant of what’s at stake.”
Sanctuary Cities Under Threat
During Trump’s first term, his administration withheld hundreds of millions of dollars in grants to sanctuary cities. However, President Joe Biden’s administration reversed this policy. The LAPD’s efforts come amid growing concerns over Trump’s anticipated immigration policies.
Related topics:
- Immigrant Communities Brace for a Potential Second Trump Term
- Michigan Immigrant Rights Groups Brace for Trump’s Mass Deportation Plans
- Tate: Democrats Overlook Key Lessons on Illegal Immigration
