Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and County Council President Natali Fani-González issued a joint statement Thursday addressing the July 22 federal immigration enforcement operation near the Potomac River along Clara Barton Parkway, emphasizing that Montgomery County agencies did not participate in ICE enforcement actions.
According to the statement, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service responded to reports of people in the Potomac River near Lock 7 and focused solely on life-saving operations, ensuring everyone reached shore safely before ending the rescue. Officials said Montgomery County police responded only to provide safety assistance if needed and disengaged once it was determined their assistance was no longer required, adding that officers did not participate in the pursuit, detention, apprehension, or enforcement actions related to the federal operation.
The county leaders also reaffirmed that, consistent with Montgomery County’s Trust Act, neither MCFRS nor MCPD participates in federal civil immigration enforcement. They said county agencies remain committed to responding to emergencies and protecting the safety of everyone who lives, works, and visits Montgomery County, regardless of the circumstances surrounding an incident.
