by Seattle Police Department (SPD) 

The Seattle Police Department understands the concern and anxiety created by reports of federal enforcement actions being taken in the city we all hold dear. The department stands by our core beliefs and affirms that we will follow our policies and Washington state law. We aim to be the voice of calm and reason in these confusing times. 

The City of Seattle is a welcoming city and we abide by all state laws and regulations that prohibit the Seattle Police Department’s participation in immigration enforcement. To be clear, SPD has no role in federal civil immigration enforcement, which is solely the responsibility of the federal government.  While we have no authority over federal agents, we will document all incidents when we are notified through 911 and protect the rights of all people in our city.  We encourage people to call 911 or the non-emergency line at (206) 625-5011 whenever they see criminal or dangerous activity to help us keep Seattle a safe city for all who choose to live, work, and visit here.   

For information on immigration, resources, and upcoming “Know Your Rights” trainings, the City of Seattle has the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs available.  In 2025, they launched the Rapid Response program to provide the resources, services, and plans needed to some of our most vulnerable communities.  

Please remember that not all information you see online is verified, including sightings or “confirmed” accounts of events. Use your best judgment when sharing information online.  

How SPD reacts to suspected ICE activity 

• The Seattle Police Department’s primary responsibility is the life safety of all people. If officers receive a 911 call, they will respond to the concerns. When Officers arrive, they first will ensure the scene is safe for everyone present, then provide medical aid to any victim(s) as soon as possible. 

• If SPD receives a 911 call, officers respond promptly to the call location. If officers, while proactively patrolling, observe a potential incident, they will notify Communications to initiate dispatch. In all such incidents, a supervisor will also respond with dispatched officers. 

• Officers are trained to utilize In-car and Body-Worn Video per manual section 16.090 – In-car and Body-Worn Video. 

• Officers attempt to contact the reporting party, utilizing a language line as needed to facilitate communication. 

• An officer will attempt to validate the status of the individuals appearing to be law enforcement by respectfully requesting official identification when safe and feasible and document the incident.  

• A Patrol Supervisor will respond with officers to the scene and continue to monitor the incident until it is complete.

How SPD monitors and documents confirmed ICE activity 

The Seattle Police Department has no way to track when or where federal law enforcement agencies are operating within the city. 

If officers are alerted to suspected ICE activity, officers will document the incident in an incident report, preserving the anonymity of the parties involved, to include: 

• The initial reason for community concern. 

• All attempts to verify credentials. 

• Any agency contacts or verifications made through dispatch; and 

• The final disposition of the encounter.  

The Watch Commander notifies the chain of command who will then notify the Mayor’s Office.

How POET engages with and protects community members 

During major protests, the department focuses on facilitating free speech and safety. SPD does not directly engage with individuals unless there is threat of harm to individuals and/or significant property damage.  

SPD recognizes that the visible appearance of officers/the actions of police officers can affect the demeanor and behavior of a crowd. SPD’s mission is to always de-escalate when safe and feasible , and as long as public order/safety is not compromised.  

Communication is key. SPD’s first step is communicating with organizers and crowd members through our Police Outreach Engagement Team (POET)teams.  

• At any demonstration, planned or impromptu, POET officers show up to connect. 

• Their role is to help ensure folks can safely and effectively exercise their First Amendment rights. 

• They are specifically trained to speak with organizers and the community before protests, aiming for facilitation, not confrontation. 

• Members of Police Outreach and Engagement Team wear special uniforms specifically labeled “POET” 

If you have an issue, please approach a POET officer and they will get you assistance.