Our Approach to Immigration Enforcement
The Lewis University Police Department is committed to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all students and employees. LUPD serves and protects our entire community. Laws and policies in effect in Illinois, and on our campus, are designed to create an environment where our students, regardless of their status, can feel safe and secure as they pursue their educational goals knowing they are protected.
The role of police officers in Illinois in enforcing the civil portions of federal immigration law are limited by statute. The Illinois Attorney General has provided clear guidance to Illinois law enforcement officers regarding their role in immigration enforcement. As such, Lewis University Police officers are not authorized to enforce federal civil immigration law (LUPD Policy 417 “Immigration Violations”).
Below, you’ll find answers to common questions about immigration enforcement on campus and in the State of Illinois. This FAQ is not legal advice, but provides insight regarding current policies, laws and procedures.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
Can police officers in Illinois arrest or detain individuals based on their immigration status? |
NO. |
Do immigration agents have unfettered access to the Lewis University campuses anytime? |
Generally, NO. Lewis University campuses are private property and we have the right to refuse access to law enforcement officers without a warrant or specific exigency. Lewis University is required to provide access to federal immigration agents to private property if the agents(s) provide a valid judicial warrant or if an exigency exists. If an outside law enforcement officer or agent demands access to University property, ask the officer/agent for their name, identification number and agency affiliation and inform the officer / agent that you are not obstructing their process but must consult university police. Immediately contact LUPD at 815-836-5911 and ask to speak to the Chief of Police (or designee). |
Do undocumented individuals risk deportation if they report a crime to a police officer? |
NO. |
Can police officers in Illinois team up with ICE agents to arrest undocumented persons? |
Generally, NO. |
If I am approached by a federal agent, do I have to speak to them? |
No. You have the right to remain silent. |
Can a resident student refuse to allow a federal immigration enforcement officer / agent to enter their residence hall room? |
Generally, YES. A residential hall room cannot be legally accessed by immigration enforcement officers without a valid criminal warrant or the voluntary consent of the occupant. A student may refuse entry to any law enforcement officer who is not in possession of a criminal warrant, regardless of what that officer might say. |
Are my student records protected? |
Generally, YES.
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