As Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations become more common in Orange County, the Fullerton Police Department (FPD) is reevaluating its protocols regarding interactions with federal agents. Recent developments came to light following a call on January 22, where officers responded to reports of a man brandishing a handgun at an apartment complex. Upon arrival, officers learned that ICE agents were on the scene attempting to apprehend a suspect related to immigration violations.

In a City Council meeting on February 3, Police Chief Jon Radus addressed the complexities surrounding the incident and the department’s response. He noted that ICE has ceased notifying local law enforcement about their operations, a significant departure from previous protocols designed to keep police informed of federal activities in the community.

Councilmember Dr. Ahmad Zahra raised concerns about school lockdown protocols, particularly given the timing of the incident and its proximity to Woodcrest Elementary School. He emphasized that the school’s schedule includes programs that start as early as 7:00 am, despite the school’s official start time of 8:15 am. “What was the protocol and consideration regarding this?” Zahra questioned.
In response, Chief Radus acknowledged that there are always opportunities for improvement in the department’s response efforts. He explained that FPD supervisors were unaware of Woodcrest’s early programs during the incident. “We have since identified this fact through debriefing with the district, which occurs after most critical incidents,” Radus said.

Radus clarified that, while officers initially believed they were on Baker Street because of a resident’s initial dispatch call, they were actually positioned on Houston Avenue—two blocks south of the school. He explained the importance of notifying school districts of ongoing police activity, particularly if there is a potential threat. In high-risk scenarios, like an active shooter situation, immediate lockdowns are necessary. However, he emphasized that, during this incident, the situation did not warrant such measures, as there was no direct threat to the school. The suspect had been reported to be running away from the school.

Zahra pressed further, asking if a lockdown would have been initiated had the department been aware that the school was open. Radus confirmed, “Yes, I believe all our supervisors would agree we should inform the school of our operations in the area.”
Zahra also noted that the school principal had spoken with an officer but had not received any information about the situation. Radus explained that communication with school representatives hinges on the specific circumstances of each incident. He reassured that principals have direct contact with police supervisors and school resource officers for timely updates.

Looking ahead, Zahra urged improved communication methods and protocols to ensure student safety as they navigate the challenges posed by federal agency operations.

Chief Radus responded, “We do have a very good relationship with the school district. We are committed to enhancing our communication and response strategies to protect our children and the community better.”

As the Fullerton Police Department continues to adjust its protocols, the priority remains clear: to ensure community safety while effectively responding to the complexities introduced by ICE.

Watch the City Council meeting here: https://fullerton.granicus.com/player/clip/2211?view_id=2&redirect=true