The Phoenix Police Department is distancing itself from various federal immigration operations occurring in the Valley, according to a statement released Tuesday.

The department said it is aware of operations by the Department of Homeland Security and Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, but it was not part of those missions, according to the statement.

“We are aware of recent federal immigration enforcement activity in neighboring states and in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. The Phoenix Police Department is not involved in these operations,” the statement said.

The issue has come up as multitudes of protests in Los Angeles have erupted over ICE enforcement actions that have resulted in President Donald Trump federalizing that state’s national guard and sending 2,000 members to the city as well as 700 U.S. Marines to protect federal workers.

The military call-up has resulted in California Gov. Gavin Newsom suing the Trump administration, calling the moves unconstitutional.

The protests and issues are not limited to California. In the Valley, an altercation between DHS officials serving a warrant and residents in a Peoria neighborhood. Peoria Police were called to the scene and one person was arrested.

Phoenix has seen ICE immigration efforts in and near local courts as officials have detained immigrants coming out of court hearings.

The full Phoenix Police statement is here:

“The Phoenix Police Department remains committed to providing the highest level of service and ensuring the safety of everyone in our community.

“We are aware of recent federal immigration enforcement activity in neighboring states and in the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. The Phoenix Police Department is not involved in these operations.

“We understand these activities can evoke fear or other strong emotions, and in some cases, may lead to peaceful demonstrations. The Department fully recognizes and respects the constitutional rights of all to peaceably assemble and exercise free speech. Our role is to help ensure all individuals are safe and that everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

“The Department monitors these gatherings, intervening only as necessary--specifically to address criminal behavior which may disrupt peaceful activities, cause injury or impact public safety response and services.
We encourage all community members to express their views in a peaceful and lawful manner, and we remain committed to supporting safe and respectful demonstrations.”