CRANFORD, NJ – The Cranford Police Department is reminding residents of its ongoing adherence to New Jersey’s Immigrant Trust Directive, a statewide policy designed to strengthen trust between law enforcement and immigrant communities.
In a statement shared Friday, the department said it wanted to provide clarity “for residents who may have questions or concerns about the role of New Jersey’s law enforcement regarding immigration laws.” Officials emphasized that individuals should always feel safe contacting police for help, regardless of immigration status.
The Immigrant Trust Directive, first issued in 2018 by then–Attorney General Gurbir Grewal, draws a clear distinction between local and state police—who enforce criminal laws—and federal immigration authorities such as ICE, who enforce civil immigration laws. The policy restricts local law enforcement from participating in federal immigration enforcement operations or inquiring about a person’s immigration status unless directly relevant to a criminal investigation.
Under the directive, New Jersey police officers cannot stop or detain individuals based solely on immigration status, participate in ICE enforcement operations, or hold someone in custody beyond their release date solely because of an ICE detainer.
- The Cranford Police Department reaffirmed its compliance with New Jersey’s Immigrant Trust Directive.
- The policy prohibits local law enforcement from enforcing federal immigration laws.
- Residents are encouraged to report crimes or seek assistance without fear of deportation.
For more information about the directive and its guidelines, residents can visit nj.gov/trust, maintained by the New Jersey Office of the Attorney General.
