Seattle Police: Witnesses reported ICE made arrests in North Seattle
Jan 8, 2026, 2:30 PM | Updated: 3:22 pm
The badge of an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent. (Photo: Michael M. Santiago, Getty Images)
(Photo: Michael M. Santiago, Getty Images)
The Seattle Police Department (SPD) said witnesses reported seeing ICE agents arrest three men in north Seattle Wednesday.
The arrests allegedly happened at Evergreen Washelli Cemetery at approximately 10:15 a.m., according to an SPD police report.
‘Full battle rattle’: Seattle council member criticizes ICE tactics
Seattle City Councilmember Bob Kettle said it appeared the men were first confronted at a nearby Home Depot, and chased them into a nearby cemetery.
“I don’t think we need full battle rattle at the Home Depot on Aurora,” Kettle told KIRO Newsradio. “I don’t think we need that type of approach, mask, and with that kind of tactical gear.”
Kettle believes federal law enforcement is not ensuring due process.
“They’re not doing all these things that we have as a nation in terms of rule of law,” he said.
SPD chief confirms federal enforcement activity
SPD Chief Shon Barnes confirmed federal agents were conducting enforcement duties in the area at the time. He said the SPD has no authority over ICE, but can document incidents and make sure rights are being respected.
“I want to emphasize what I have been sharing with concerned community members for months: The Seattle Police Department is here to keep people safe, regardless of anyone’s immigration status,” Barnes wrote in a statement published on the SPD crime blotter.
He reaffirmed that, under state and city law, local police are forbidden from participating in immigration enforcement.
Local leaders have said that to do so would be a misuse of local resources and might deter immigrants from reporting crimes or seeking help from police.
No details have been released about the individuals detained by ICE, as of this reporting.
KIRO Newsradio and MyNorthwest have reached out to ICE for comment.
This is a developing story, check back for updates
Contributing: Aaron Granillo, KIRO Newsradio
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