Northampton County Executive McClure Comments on Cooperation With Federal Immigration Authorities

From the county website. See this link

https://norcopa.gov/index.php?section=press-releases&prrid=189

Or this cut-and-paste:

May 30, 2025

WHO: Northampton County Executive Lamont G. McClure

WHAT: Statement on Immigration Detainer Policy and Response to Recent Federal Criticism

WHERE: Northampton County, PA

Northampton County, PA – Northampton County reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the rule of law and the constitutional principles that govern our Nation. We recognize and respect the Federal Government’s essential role in enforcing immigration laws. That is precisely why Northampton County fully cooperates with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (I.C.E.), in strict accordance with both the Pennsylvania Constitution and the United States Constitution.

We believe that undocumented individuals who commit crimes should be deported. That is why we go well beyond what most jurisdictions do: Northampton County honors I.C.E. immigration detainers for up to 48 hours. This is a significant and proactive measure, underscoring our commitment to both public safety and lawful cooperation.

However, the law is clear, local governments are not required to enforce federal immigration laws. Despite this, Northampton County remains transparent and cooperative. We inform I.C.E. of the date and time of release for any undocumented person under our custody, and are willing to coordinate releases at I.C.E.’s convenience.

Importantly, when an individual has been ordered released by a judge of the Court of Common Pleas of Northampton County, our policy, consistent with constitutional due process, requires I.C.E. to obtain a judicial order before remanding that individual into federal custody. I.C.E. is fully aware of this legal requirement, yet routinely refuses to seek the constitutionally mandated court order. The refusal to follow due process lies not with Northampton County, but with I.C.E.

The recent inclusion of Northampton County on a politically motivated list criticizing local jurisdictions is a blatant distortion of fact and a transparent act of partisan grandstanding. It is a smear rooted not in law or logic, but in naked MAGA politics.

Northampton County will continue to uphold our responsibilities under the law, honoring our Constitution, protecting our community, and rejecting attempts to politicize public safety.

Video footage of release and arrests are available upon request

— Editor’s note: Lamont G. McClure is a Democrat and seeking his party’s nomination for U.S. Congress.

Pennsylvania’s 7th District is represented by Ryan Mackenzie, a first-term Republican.