Press Release: 2/5/2026
Statement Updating Northampton’s Commitment to Inclusion, Public Safety, and the Rule of Law
Statement Updating Northampton’s Commitment to Inclusion, Public Safety, and the Rule of Law
February 2026
Northampton is reaffirming its commitment to inclusion and sanctuary in response to a marked escalation in federal immigration enforcement across the country. Since the city last restated these commitments in November 2024, enforcement actions in multiple states have intensified in ways that raise serious concerns about public safety, civil rights, and the appropriate role of state and local government.
The killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minnesota, along with aggressive and violent enforcement activity there and in other states, including neighboring Maine, have shocked communities nationwide. These events reflect a troubling escalation and have understandably generated fear and uncertainty, including here in Northampton. They warrant a clear and sober response that acknowledges the harm being caused and explains how Northampton will act within the law to protect public safety and maintain community trust.
Northampton city leadership shares the deep concern expressed by Governor Maura Healey and Attorney General Andrea Campbell. As state leaders have made clear, the federal government has broad authority over immigration enforcement, but that authority does not extend to violating constitutional protections or compelling state and local governments to participate in federal actions.
Recent actions by the Governor and Attorney General reflect an effort to assert state authority where appropriate, protect public safety, and ensure that state and local resources are used lawfully and responsibly. These actions include proposed legislation and executive measures intended to limit where ICE may conduct warrantless civil arrests — such as in courthouses, schools, hospitals, and places of worship — to restrict new partnerships between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities, and to clarify state authority over National Guard deployments, representing one of the most comprehensive state efforts in the country to reduce fear and harm in Massachusetts communities.
At this moment, the City of Northampton is clarifying what these developments mean locally and reaffirming its commitments to the community.
Federal immigration enforcement is the responsibility of the federal government. The City of Northampton does not direct, control, or participate in ICE operations.
Under Massachusetts law and longstanding city policy detailed in our November 2024 statement, the Northampton Police Department does not assist with civil immigration enforcement, does not detain individuals based solely on civil immigration detainers, and does not act as an immigration enforcement agency. Local police officers do not inquire about immigration status in the course of routine policing or collect immigration information, and city resources are not used to carry out federal immigration enforcement activities.
At the same time, Local law enforcement does not interfere with federal actions carried out under lawful authority and does not take actions that would escalate risk or undermine public safety. The city’s approach is grounded in restraint, professionalism, and adherence to clear legal boundaries.
Civil immigration enforcement is distinct from criminal law enforcement. Civil immigration violations are not crimes under Massachusetts law, and local law enforcement lacks authority to detain individuals solely on that basis. Judicial warrants, when presented, are treated as they would be for any federal agency. This distinction protects individual rights, preserves the integrity of local law enforcement, and reduces legal risk for officers and municipalities alike.
We recognize that fear and uncertainty are real, particularly for immigrant families, parents, and those who work in schools, health care, and other public-serving institutions. Northampton is actively coordinating with state partners and legal counsel to ensure city departments and employees have clear guidance on their roles and responsibilities. Additional training and internal preparation are underway to support consistent, lawful, and calm responses across city operations.
Emergency response, public safety services, and access to city and school programs are available to all residents, regardless of immigration status. These commitments are rooted both in public safety and public health. Communities are healthier and safer when people are able to seek medical care, mental health services, report concerns, access care, and engage with local government without fear. Ensuring trust and access to care protects not only the individuals and families, but the wellbeing of the community as a whole.
Northampton will continue to act deliberately and responsibly. The city’s focus remains on protecting those most at risk, preserving public trust, and upholding the rule of law. It will continue to work in coordination with state leadership, within the bounds of local authority, to uphold dignity and safety for all.
Signed,
Gina-Louise Sciarra, Mayor
John Cartledge, Chief of Police
Merridith O’Leary, Commissioner, Department of Health and Human Services
For more information, contact the Mayor’s Office at 413-587-1249 or mayor@northamptonma.gov.