Until reform is enacted, the sheriff intends to notify ICE, whenever possible, to allow officers time to take custody of detained individuals.
He stresses the importance of collaboration and believes the state’s current policy limits effective communication with federal agencies. “Sharing of information on everybody, not unilaterally deciding ‘we’re not going to cooperate. We’re not going to do this,’” he added, cautioning that this approach undermines public safety.
Sheriff Evangelidis and other concerned citizens hope that Massachusetts lawmakers will revisit the issue to balance public safety with fair treatment, ensuring the state’s policies serve all residents responsibly.
