Jenkintown Borough Hall Photo by James Short.
Officials in Jenkintown Borough have issued a public statement reaffirming the town’s commitment to inclusivity and clarifying the role of local law enforcement in relation to federal immigration policies.
Through a press release, officials stated that Jenkintown remains a “welcoming, inclusive community,” highlighting the important contributions immigrants make to local neighborhoods, schools, and businesses. Borough leaders underscored that immigrants are a vital part of the community’s identity and daily life.
“We value everyone who lives in, works in, or visits our Borough,” the statement reads, adding a direct message to immigrant residents: “You are welcome here, you matter here, and we are glad you are part of Jenkintown.”
According to the announcement, the Jenkintown Borough Police Department will continue to prioritize public safety over civil immigration enforcement. Officials say this approach is intended to build trust between law enforcement and the community, an essential component of effective policing.
By maintaining a clear separation between local policing and federal immigration enforcement, borough leaders aim to ensure that fear does not prevent residents from reporting crimes, seeking help, or cooperating with police.
The statement outlines specific practices guiding the police department’s work. Officers will continue to provide equal protection and respect to all individuals, regardless of immigration status, and will enforce local and state laws designed to protect public safety.
Police also encourage all residents, regardless of background, to report crimes and engage with law enforcement without hesitation. Additionally, the department will follow all applicable privacy laws and ensure accountability by notifying borough leadership of any immigration-related situations that arise.
At the same time, officials made clear what the department will not do. Jenkintown police do not enforce federal immigration laws, do not ask about immigration status during routine interactions, and do not collect or share sensitive personal data, such as country of origin or immigration status, unless required by law.
The borough also confirmed it has not participated in, and does not plan to join, the federal government’s 287(g) program, which allows local law enforcement agencies to assist in immigration enforcement. Officials further stated that local police have not assisted federal immigration authorities with enforcement activities within the borough.
