MANHATTAN (KSNT) – The head of the Riley County Police Department is addressing community concerns over recent immigration enforcement operations in the Little Apple.
RCPD Director Brian Peete posted a video message to his agency’s social media accounts on Feb. 6 where he took time to talk about recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations in Manhattan. The RCPD confirmed on Feb. 5 that ICE agents were in the city, but did not participate in the operations that took place.
“I can tell you that based on my follow-up inquiries, the agents conducted themselves with the highest levels of professionalism and due care for safety to include the safety of those they did detain,” Peete said. “This was the exact same level of professionalism I have come to see and know from all of law enforcement in Kansas, whether local, state or federal.”
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Peete said that, over the last day, he has spotted several “graphic and concerning posts on social media” that could lead to the targeting of individuals who aren’t involved with law enforcement and those who are peacefully sharing their thoughts. He calls for members of the community to engage in responsible dialogue and mutual respect.
“It always takes more strength to love one another when emotions run high, especially if another has written or said something hurtful,” Peete said. “We cannot allow our differences to create these deep divisions or rivalries. I know our community will never allow itself to be captivated by its differences, but instead we are drawn together and focused on mutual hopes, goals and aspirations.”
Peete also explained that RCPD can’t enforce immigration laws. However, he said that if the RCPD arrests someone who has a warrant with ICE, the agency will hold that person for extradition for at least 48 hours as part of the RCPD’s long-standing policies.
The RPCD does not participate in ICE’s voluntary 287(g) program that some other Kansas law enforcement agencies have signed on to. As of 2026, 24 separate law enforcement agencies participate with ICE under this program.
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