ICE Seizes Landscapers In Belleville, Mayor Says

BELLEVILLE, NJ — Federal immigration authorities took several landscaping workers into custody in Belleville on Thursday, the town’s mayor said.

Frank Vélez issued a statement about the situation, reporting that multiple ICE operations took place on Rutgers Street and Van Reyper Place.

Patch reached out to ICE seeking more information. We will update this article with any reply we receive.

Vélez’s full statement follows below:

“Earlier today, I was made aware of multiple ICE operations that took place on Rutgers Street and Van Reyper Place.

“Based on information provided by witnesses at both locations, multiple landscaping workers were taken into ICE custody.

“ICE has also confirmed its presence in Belleville today.

“As municipal officials, we are not notified in advance of ICE enforcement activity.

“Additionally, the Belleville Police Department is not involved in federal immigration enforcement operations and is not provided with operational details by ICE.

“I have been in communication with Senator Cory Booker, Senator Andy Kim, Congresswoman Analilia Mejia, State Senator Britnee Timberlake and their offices and will continue working to gather additional information.

“I will provide updates to the community as they become available.

“I understand the stress and anxiety that news like brings to so many.

“Belleville is a community that cares for all of its residents. My commitment is to communicate directly and transparently with our community so that accurate, verified information is shared as promptly as possible today and always.”

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