WORCESTER—The Worcester City Council voted 8-2 Tuesday night to prohibit the Worcester Police Department from entering into a 287(g) Task Force Model agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Council Vice-Chair Khrystian King, who authored the resolution, described it as a preemptive action to protect Worcester residents. The 287(g) model would allow local officers to act in partnership with ICE, but King said such an agreement could strain the police department and harm trust with the community.
“No towns or cities in Massachusetts currently have such agreements,” King said. “By passing this resolution, we are making a clear statement—Worcester will not be complicit in a program that criminalizes families, undermines trust, and disproportionately targets people of color.”
Councilor Etel Haxhiaj cited recent ICE activity in Worcester, including a May operation on Eureka Street, and stressed the importance of local advocacy. “The first and last line of defense is our community,” Haxhiaj told the council. “It is upon us to take care of our families.” She called for strong support for the city manager and police leadership, drawing comparisons to Boston’s approach under Mayor Michelle Wu.
Councilors raised varying perspectives during debate. Morris Bergman questioned the need for the resolution, calling the scenario “hypothetical,” since the police department had not initiated any discussions on a 287(g) agreement. Kate Toomey noted that information on the WPD website confirms the department does not inquire about immigration status or detain immigrants for ICE.
Other council members emphasized reassurance for residents concerned about federal enforcement. George Russell said the resolution would clarify that Worcester will not participate in the program. Jenny Pacillo highlighted the chilling effect ICE activity can have on immigrant communities’ daily lives.
Mayor Joe Petty spoke in support of the resolution, describing it as a message to Worcester’s immigrant population that they are part of the community. Petty also criticized the federal government for creating systemic challenges that local governments are expected to address.
The council approved the resolution, with Councilors Bergman and Donna Colorio dissenting.
Steve Smith, a veteran reporter with 17 years at The Hartford Courant, now brings his passion for photojournalism to Worcester. An award-winning photographer, he has covered major events like U.S. soccer, pro football, and UConn basketball. He is also the official photographer for the Miss Massachusetts competition and works as a realtor. Contact him at steve@stevephotographysmith.com
