Lawrence law enforcement leaders address ICE concerns, emphasize unity at forum
Local law enforcement leaders gathered over the weekend in Lawrence to address community concerns regarding ICE activity and other public safety issues.
The forum, hosted by the NAACP at the Lawrence Public Library, brought together Douglas County Sheriff Jay Armbrister, Lawrence Police Chief Rich Lockhart, and the University of Kansas Police Chief Nelson Mosley to answer prepared questions from the community.
During the discussion, Lockhart emphasized transparency in local policing, contrasting it with concerns by residents about federal agents operating in the area.
“Police officers do not cover their faces or use tear gas on peaceful protesters,” Lockhart said.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, commonly known as ICE, has been a relevant issue and concern over the past year. ICE has been spotted seven times in Lawrence. Most recently, the Sanctuary Alliance of Lawrence reported agents on KU’s campus with at least two detainments reported. Further, the state legislature has just approved a bill that will allow sheriffs to detain people at ICE’s request.
“I cannot say what our local law enforcement will do,” Sanctuary Alliance member Faith Lopez said at the meeting. “My only hope is that they know that they can stand up and make a voice for Lawrence.”
All three law enforcement leaders shared the same feeling of sadness because of the excessive force used by ICE agents not just in Lawrence, but across the country. According to federal data, more than 68,000 people have been detained and are in federal custody; ICE reported 14 in-custody deaths this year and 33 in 2025.
Armbrister reiterated that his office does not actively participate in immigration enforcement, focusing instead on local public safety.
“I like to tell everybody; we are not the national narrative,” Armbrister said.
Leaders also signaled plans for additional public forums, aiming to give residents more opportunities to ask questions and engage directly with law enforcement.
As debate over immigration enforcement continues statewide and nationally, Lawrence officials say their priority remains clear: maintaining public safety while fostering trust through openness and collaboration.
Watch the segment here:
