To the People of Montclair, each to whom the members of the Montclair Police Department are committed to serving:

As your Chief of Police, I want to take a moment to address our beloved Montclair community during this time when many residents struggle to comprehend recent events occurring not only in our neighboring county but here, too, in San Bernardino County.

Please be assured that the Montclair Police Department is committed to the public’s health, safety and welfare, and building trust in the community. As part of our ongoing commitment to these ideals, I want to clarify your Police Department’s role regarding immigration enforcement. I consider it important that all residents understand our primary responsibility is to serve and protect each resident, regardless of immigration status.

In accordance with California state law, including California Values Act (SB 54), the Montclair Police Department does not participate in federal immigration enforcement. We do not ask individuals about their immigration status, nor do we detain or arrest individuals solely based on immigration status. Immigration enforcement is the responsibility of federal agencies, such as U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

As a mutual aid agency, the Montclair Police Department will continue to support our law enforcement partners within and outside the City of Montclair, particularly when the objective of support extends to the safety of the community and residents, protection of rights and property, Police Officer safety, and maintaining peace throughout our neighboring communities.

Whether you are a resident, visitor, or someone in need of help you have the right to live and work in safety. The Montclair Police Department is here to ensure that everyone can access emergency services, report crimes, seek assistance, cooperate with law enforcement, and receive necessary support without concern or fear about their immigration status.

The Montclair Police Department is committed to protecting your privacy, including information about each person’s immigration status. It is our practice and policy to not share privileged immigration information with federal immigration authorities unless we are compelled or required to do so by law or court order. We value the trust you have in us, and seek to build stronger community partnerships based on mutual respect and understanding.

We are also committed to ensuring that each person in our community is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness; and we do so by working every day to foster positive relationships with every member of the community, regardless of personal background.

The Montclair Police Department remains steadfast in our dedication to making the Montclair community a safe, welcoming place for all, and we live by our motto of “Commitment to Service.”

Respectfully,

Jason Reed, Chief of Police