Officials Comment on ICE Arrests at Avon
Sign seen at the Avon National Night Out Against Crime.
By: Isabella Zarate
The Avon Police Department, along with the ICE agency made approximately 20 arrests on Tuesday, July 22.
ICE stands for Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Avon PD was conducting what another news agency reported as a “traffic blitz,” which they identified as stops made for various reasons such as traffic and registration violations as well as aggressive driving.
Two days after the arrests, Avon PD hosted their National Night Out Against Crime, an annual event intended to celebrate law enforcement and the community.
Activities for the evening took place at Avon High School. While families and locals celebrated their officers, others protested.
A small crowd gathered outside of the event with signs reading things like: “Mr. Stoops, you have failed your community,” “Deport ICE,” “Everyone is welcome here,” and “Todos son bienvenidos aquí.”
Avon Police Chief, Sean Stoops shared with The Republican that the department is still trying to recover from National Night Out Against Crime, as well as a street takeover assembly, which resulted in an armed robbery that occurred Sunday night.
Stoops did not answer any questions when requested and instead shared that a press release will be sent to media outlets sometime in the future.
State Legislators Brett Clark and Greg Steuerwald shared their thoughts on the matter.
"I unequivocally support our local law enforcement in their essential work to keep the community safe. It's important for them to collaborate with officials at all levels to enforce our laws,” Representative Steuerwald said.
“Without more information, it is difficult to speak in detail and I don't want to speculate. I trust our officers to do the right thing and have full faith in their leadership. I worked closely with them during my time as Sheriff, and I stand behind their commitment to public safety,” Senator Clark, former Hendricks County Sheriff shared.
As far as town input, Avon Town Manager Ryan Cannon informed that it is the Town’s policy not to comment on police activities.
