MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (7News) — An active federal law enforcement operation involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) unfolded Wednesday morning along the Potomac River in Montgomery County.
7News had a crew at the scene that observed ICE agents in the area around Lock 10, part of the C&O Canal National Historical Park near Cabin John.
The U.S. Park Police (USPP) said it started when officers were conducting “commercial vehicle enforcement” on the Clara Barton Parkway alongside federal agents.
According to USPP, three people inside a vehicle got out and ran away. The agency said there was no vehicle pursuit and referred 7News to ICE for additional details.
The Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD) confirmed it also responded after receiving a request for assistance from USPP.
According to MCPD, its officers were there only to help ensure officer safety and assist if rescue or emergency response became necessary.
SEE ALSO | Semi hauling concrete piles breaks down on I-495, closing lanes during rush hour
“After it was determined that our assistance was not needed, MCPD officers disengaged from the incident,” the department said in a statement.
Police also emphasized that, under department policy, Montgomery County officers do not participate in federal civil immigration enforcement.
READ | 2 arrested after more than $100K in stolen cemetery vases recovered in Charles County
Officials have not yet released details about what led to the federal law enforcement response or whether anyone has been taken into custody.
7News has reached out to ICE for additional information and will update this story as more details become available.
Local Story
