By Anne Levin

A release from the Municipality of Princeton and the Princeton Police Department today, January 15, confirmed that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was present in the community at approximately 8:30 a.m.

According to reports the town and the police received, a crossing guard at Birch Avenue and John Street observed two suspicious vehicles in the area. Several individuals approached the vehicles before they drove away, and the witnesses believed the individuals may have been affiliated with ICE.

After contacting ICE directly, the Princeton Police Department confirmed that ICE personnel were present in Princeton earlier today and that two individuals were taken into custody. ICE was unable to provide the reasons or any additional information. 

The Municipality was able to independently confirm that two adult males were detained. 

“Please know that ICE did not notify the Municipality of Princeton or the Princeton Police Department in advance of their presence or actions,” the release reads. “The Princeton Police do not participate in federal immigration enforcement.”

The release continues, “The Municipality shares the concerns many in our community feel in response to this and similar actions. We remain committed to keeping residents informed and will continue to share verified information as it becomes available. Princeton Human Services will continue to provide support, resources, and information to Princeton’s underserved communities. The Mayor and Council remain committed to ensuring that Princeton is a welcoming community for all.”