Last Updated on November 20, 2025 3:25 pm
BOONE — Mayor Tim Futrelle issued a statement Thursday addressing the potential presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (I.C.E.) in Boone, strongly opposing any unannounced or unnecessary activities within town limits.
According to the mayor's statement, I.C.E. is not currently conducting formal operations inside Boone's jurisdiction. However, Futrelle emphasized the town's position on federal law enforcement activity.
“I want to be unequivocally clear: I strongly oppose any unannounced or unnecessary activities by I.C.E. within our town limits,” Futrelle stated. “Boone is a community built on trust, cooperation, and the fundamental belief that every resident deserves safety and dignity.”
The mayor stressed that the Town of Boone is fully capable of maintaining public safety and has not requested federal law enforcement intervention. He stated that unannounced or unnecessary operations by I.C.E. “undermine community trust, create fear, and disrupt the relationships our officers work hard to build with all members of the Boone community.”
Futrelle formally requested that I.C.E. refrain from any law-enforcement activity within the Town of Boone unless such actions are explicitly coordinated with and requested by local leadership, in accordance with established protocols and demonstrated need.
“We request that federal agencies respect the autonomy, expertise, and authority of local officials who know this community best,” the mayor said.
The statement concluded with Futrelle reaffirming the town's commitment to being “a welcoming, safe, and united town for every person who calls it home.”
