Statement on Immigration Enforcement and Community Safety
Published on October 09, 2025
The Village of Oak Park is aware of ongoing immigration enforcement activities conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other federal agencies in the area. These agencies have not provided prior notice or communication to Village officials or the Oak Park Police Department (OPPD).
Under the Illinois TRUST Act, Oak Park Police are prohibited from participating in or assisting federal immigration enforcement. Officers are fully trained on the TRUST Act and the Village’s Welcoming Ordinance, which clarify that while local police do not enforce federal immigration laws, they retain full authority to enforce state laws and local ordinances. These responsibilities are essential to maintaining community safety and should not be mistaken for immigration enforcement.
When residents call 911, police respond independently and will not be accompanied by ICE. OPPD does not inquire about immigration status and will not detain individuals solely for immigration reasons or assist with federal investigations.
Residents are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings and to report suspicious behavior to help keep Oak Park safe. If you observe something that appears unusual, or may indicate a crime in progress, call 911 immediately. For situations that are not urgent but still concerning, contact the OPPD’s non-emergency line at 708.386.3800 or submit a report online at www.oak-park.us/policereport.
When reporting, please share as many details as possible, including the location, what was observed and any descriptions of people or vehicles involved. This vigilance and partnership with OPPD play an important role in maintaining a safe and welcoming community for all.
Recently, some residents expressed concern about a Cook County Sheriff’s Office helicopter near Oak Park. OPPD confirms that these aerial operations are part of enhanced traffic enforcement on I-290, aimed at cracking down on motorists driving on the shoulder, and are not related to immigration enforcement.
Oak Park is a Welcoming Village and it recognizes that navigating immigration processes can be challenging. To support residents and those in need, Oak Park has compiled a list of frequently asked questions and local and regional resources, including advocacy groups, legal aid providers, and wraparound service organizations. These resources can be accessed at www.oak-park.us/immigrationresources.
While the Village does not endorse any specific organization, this list is shared to provide helpful information and guidance.
Additional information about the Illinois TRUST Act and guidance for local law enforcement can be found through the Illinois Attorney General’s office (English | Spanish).
About Oak Park - The Village of Oak Park, located just nine miles west of downtown Chicago, offers a distinctive urban/suburban lifestyle in a thriving, multi-cultural community. Well-known for progressive values, tree-lined streets and bustling business districts, Oak Park serves as an ideal place to live, work and play. As a longstanding community of choice, the Village benefits from convenient access to local and regional transit, high-quality public schools, and arts and cultural attractions, including Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and studio and his acclaimed Unity Temple, which was recently designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.