RICHMOND, Va. — A man who had been reported missing in Richmond was taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on Wednesday, according to Richmond police.
A news release from the Richmond Police Department says officers were called to the 1500 block of Clarkson Road in Southwood at 7:03 a.m. Wednesday for the report of a missing man.
"When officers arrived they observed agents of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement were operating in the area of the Southwood neighborhood," police said.
The news release says officers consulted with ICE agents who confirmed the man reported missing was in custody.
Police then contacted the person who reported the man missing to inform them that he was in federal custody.
"RPD did not participate in the activity of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement as is standard practice for the Richmond Police Department," the release added.
Police did not say if any other people were taken into custody by ICE.
A statement from Councilwoman Nicole Jones, who represents the city's 9th District, says:
"My heart is heavy today. I am saddened by the reports of an ICE raid that took place in our 9th District. The 9th District is a place of rich and cultural diversity, where everyone regardless of immigration status deserves to feel safe, living with dignity and without fear. I stand with our immigrant neighbors. You are not alone. I see you! We are actively working to ensure that resources and support are available immediately and ongoing. Let's respond with solidarity-showing up for one another with reassurance and care."
The arrest comes amid multiple ICE arrests at the Chesterfield County courthouse, which Gov. Glenn Youngkin has expressed his support for.
"First of all, if you break the law in America, and you're here illegally, then you should be detained and deported," Youngkin said in a July 2 press conference. "And by the way, that’s common sense.”
CBS 6 reached out to Mayor Danny Avula's office for further comment and received the following statement:
“Richmond is a city that stands for inclusion, compassion, and care for each of our residents and, as Mayor, I will do everything within my power to protect and support Richmonders. Our local police officers will continue to focus on keeping our neighborhoods safe through community policing, not on enforcing this federal policy. We are committed to prioritizing the safety and dignity of all Richmonders as we navigate this moment.”
This is a developing story. Email the CBS 6 Newsroom if you have additional information to share.
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