East Hampton leaders are easing concerns among wealthy residents about deportations of their undocumented workers. Many of these workers are maids, landscapers, and nannies who help maintain the lavish lifestyles of the town’s elite.
Reassurance from police chief
In a special community meeting on Tuesday, local government officials assured residents that they will not target their hired help for deportation. East Hampton, an exclusive Long Island town with a median property value of $2 million, is home to many high-profile individuals who rely on undocumented immigrants for everyday tasks.
Police Chief Jeffrey Erickson made it clear that local law enforcement does not have the power to enforce federal immigration laws. He emphasized that officers will not hold undocumented immigrants on ICE detainers. “We do not have the authority to hold them,” Erickson stated. “Our cooperation with ICE is limited to criminal matters.”
Community welcomes the news
Sarlo, another key official, added that he has not seen an ICE agent in town for years. He further explained, “People in my position do not interfere with ICE agents. It’s up to attorneys and state policies to handle those situations.”
Many residents who depend on undocumented workers welcomed the news. “It’s a good idea,” said Alex Lovett, a local resident. “They’ve been a vital part of the community for a long time.” Many residents feel relieved knowing that their workers can live and work without the constant fear of deportation.
A key goal of the meeting was to encourage undocumented residents to feel safe interacting with the police. Erickson explained, “If they’re victims of a crime, we want them to call us. We want to protect them.”
Latino Community Voices Concerns
The town board also hosted a public hearing on Tuesday where members of the Latino community voiced their concerns about the Trump administration’s immigration policies. Sandra Melendez, a local trustee and immigration attorney, assured the crowd that residents were not obligated to cooperate with ICE.
Councilwoman Cate Rogers reinforced this message, emphasizing that the town is committed to supporting its undocumented residents. “The rules are constantly changing,” she said. “We are invested in this conversation. We are with you.”
Contrast with Nassau county’s approach
This approach in East Hampton is a stark contrast to actions in other areas of Long Island. Just this week, Nassau County police received new authority to help ICE arrest criminal migrants. The county’s police force, now in coordination with ICE, aims to detain and deport those involved in criminal activity.
County Executive Bruce Blakeman stated, “We want to ensure illegal immigrants who commit crimes are locked up and deported.” In contrast, East Hampton is making sure its community remains a safe haven for undocumented workers, focusing on protection rather than enforcement.
East Hampton’s stand for workers
This clear division in approach highlights the ongoing national debate about immigration and local law enforcement’s role. As East Hampton continues to protect its workers, other areas of Long Island are tightening their grip on illegal immigration.
East Hampton’s message is simple: undocumented immigrants working in the town are not at risk of deportation, and the community remains committed to protecting them.
As the political landscape shifts, it’s clear that East Hampton is making a stand in support of its workers, no matter their immigration status.
