Mayor Armondo Pavone Issues Statement on Immigration Enforcement

A Statement from Mayor Armondo Pavone: 

The current atmosphere surrounding immigration enforcement is a real and frightening concern to many in our community. I want you to know that I see this concern, I hear it, and I take it seriously.

The City of Renton stands with you. I, along with the City Council and the Renton Police Department, am committed to supporting every member of our community and ensuring that everyone feels safe.

We are paying close attention to what is happening and remain focused on the well-being of our residents.

I want to reassure you that Renton police officers will never assist ICE or any federal agency with immigration enforcement. In fact, the 2019 Keep Washington Working Act prohibits any state or local law enforcement agency from assisting in civil immigration enforcement. The Renton Police Department responds to criminal acts; immigration enforcement is a civil matter and not within their role.

If you believe a crime is occurring, or you are concerned about your safety, please call 911. A Renton police officer will respond.

In January 2025, Renton Police Department Chief Jon Schuldt reaffirmed the department’s approach to federal immigration enforcement, a position that remains unchanged and is publicly available at rentonwa.gov/immigration.

As Chief Schuldt shared: “As your Chief of Police, I want to reaffirm the department’s commitment to the safety of our community. Our mission is to work together to provide unbiased law enforcement services to the public. We strive to build positive partnerships within our proud and diverse city. I understand that recent federal immigration decisions may cause anxiety and concerns.

In 2019, the Washington state legislature passed the Keep Washington Working Act (RCW 10.93.160: https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=10.93.160), which restricts the involvement of state and local law enforcement in enforcing civil federal immigration law. That means that any community member, regardless of immigration status, is encouraged to call the police to report a crime. We will not ask for your immigration status during an investigation, whether you are the suspect or victim.

Further, our officers do not investigate immigration law violations and are not trained to do so. We are proud of the diverse and vibrant community we serve and remain dedicated to upholding our core values to build trust and maintain an environment where everyone feels safe and secure.

Our department is committed to treating all individuals with dignity and respect, and I can assure you that enforcement actions are conducted professionally, impartially, and without discrimination.”

Together, we will continue working to ensure Renton remains a welcoming, connected, and caring place for all.