The NYPD is issuing instructions to cops to limit their cooperation with immigration authorities after criticism of how the department handled the high-profile arrest of an immigration rights activist this month. Mayor Bill de Blasio announced the new instructions Wednesday, which he said are codifying existing policy.
The order, which Police Commissioner James O’Neill has issued to all members of the NYPD, says cops can only coordinate with ICE when the citywide duty chief, after checking with lawyers, decides it’s necessary for public safety reasons. In emergencies, the highest-ranking uniformed officer on the scene can make the call.
