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PHOENIX — In a strong stance against the impending mass deportation plans of President-elect Donald Trump, Phoenix’s top police official, Interim Chief Michael Sullivan, has reaffirmed the city’s commitment to focusing on local law enforcement issues, rather than federal immigration concerns.
In an in-depth interview with KTAR News 92.3 FM’s The Mike Broomhead Show on Tuesday, Sullivan emphasized that the Phoenix Police Department will maintain its long-standing policy of prioritizing crime-fighting efforts, regardless of an individual’s immigration status. “Our primary objective is to ensure public safety, and we will continue to do so by addressing criminal behavior that affects our community,” Sullivan explained.
Sullivan’s comments came on the heels of Trump’s social media declaration that he intends to put an end to illegal immigration. The Phoenix Police Chief was quick to reassure the public that the department’s approach to immigration issues will remain unchanged. “We work closely with our federal partners on criminal matters, but we do not get involved in civil immigration issues. This will continue to be our stance,” Sullivan stated.
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego had previously announced that the city would not allocate police resources to support mass deportation efforts, a stance that Sullivan strongly supports. “The mayor’s statement aligns with the city’s policies, which have been in place since 2017,” Sullivan noted, referencing the city’s established protocol during Trump’s first presidential term. “We will maintain our focus on holding accountable those who engage in criminal activity, regardless of their immigration status.”
Sullivan also highlighted the practical challenges of assisting in mass deportation efforts, citing the department’s current staffing shortage of 600 officers. “Immigration is a federal responsibility, and I don’t believe Phoenicians want us to divert our attention away from keeping the public safe,” he said. “Trust is a vital component of public safety, and we must maintain the confidence of the communities we serve.”
Sullivan expressed concern about the fear and anxiety that has gripped some communities in the wake of national discussions about deportation. “When people are fearful of deportation, it can lead to a breakdown in communication and a reluctance to report crimes,” he explained. “It’s essential for us to have trust and encourage people to come forward, so we can effectively provide public safety.”
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