Behind the Badge
Anaheim Police Chief Raul Quezada wants to reassure the community about how the Anaheim Police Department is dealing with current immigration policies.
A sense of community comes first, Quezada stressed in a letter to residents, and fear of police is unfounded. He also points out the different roles of federal and local government law enforcement agencies.
Behind the Badge is publishing the letter in its entirety here as a service to residents and readers:
To our Anaheim Community:
In response to recent developments concerning immigration status and laws, the Anaheim Police Department (APD) expresses its sincerest commitment to the residents of Anaheim during this concerning time. APD values all members of our community and is in regular communication with local and federal partners to ensure the safety and security of all members of our city.
Anaheim residents’ apprehension for their family members and loved ones is understandable with the recent paradigm shift in government. While fear and anxiety are natural and expected responses, you must not allow these events to prevent you from continuing to rely on the APD and have confidence in our department. The APD strives to develop trust and respect with all members of our community and cannot be 100 percent effective without that mutual understanding.
As Chief of the Anaheim Police Department, I am proud of the strong and effective relationships we have developed throughout our diverse communities. Built on the foundation of mutual trust, understanding and our shared commitment, these relationships are essential in ensuring that we maintain a safe, secure and vibrant community which welcomes and celebrates diversity. With that in mind, please continue to have faith in the APD and be law-abiding residents of Anaheim. We will do everything we can to protect our community and ensure immigration policies do not affect our police work or constituents.
Remember, APD is not charged with enacting immigration laws; that responsibility lies with the federal and local government. APD is the law enforcement branch of the local government and is bound to supporting the lawmakers of Anaheim and its residents.
Thank you for continuing to do your part in maintaining a safe and harmonious community.
Sincerely,
RAUL QUEZADA
CHIEF OF POLICE
