September 6, 2025

Protests Erupt in Savannah Over CCPD and ICE Collaboration

News Summary

Protests erupted in Savannah after police collaborated with ICE during traffic stops, sparking community outrage. Activists demand accountability and transparency, voicing concerns about local immigration enforcement practices and the impact on minority populations. The June 11 incident involved the detention of eight individuals. Demonstrators, organized by the Savannah DSA, highlighted fears of deportation and called for the separation of local law enforcement from ICE’s activities.

Savannah – Protests erupted in Savannah in response to a recent collaboration between local law enforcement and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during traffic patrols. A rally organized by the Savannah Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) took place outside the Chatham County Commissioner’s building, drawing several dozen attendees who demanded accountability from the Chatham County Police Department (CCPD).

The unrest follows an incident on June 11 when the Department of Homeland Security requested assistance from the CCPD, leading to ICE agents accompanying two separate CCPD units during routine traffic stops on Quacco Road. During these stops, eight individuals, including both drivers and passengers, were detained by ICE agents for immigration enforcement. Local activists now question the collaboration between CCPD and ICE, particularly in a city that has a significant minority population.

As the protest coincided with a scheduled Chatham County commission meeting, participants aimed to raise concerns about local immigration enforcement practices. The CCPD has stated that the June 11 incident was the only time they worked alongside ICE agents, asserting that their officers do not participate in proactive immigration enforcement unless requested.

The rally gained momentum due to ongoing community frustration regarding ICE’s presence in Savannah, particularly following a series of recent raids, including one at the Hyundai megasite in nearby Bryan County. Protests left visual imprints throughout the area, with chalk messages expressing opposition to ICE’s activities and demanding an end to local cooperation with the agency.

Tensions escalated during the commission meeting as several demonstrators expressed disruptions, leading to the removal of two protesters. Attendees voiced concerns related to ICE’s operations, arguing for a safe community free from the possibility of raids that threaten families, especially in areas with high immigrant populations.

Evidence from body camera footage from the June 11 traffic stops has surfaced, showing ICE agents engaged closely with local police, including discussions favoring cooperation to minimize public scrutiny during enforcement activities. This has raised alarms among community advocates who emphasize that such actions lead to detrimental effects on families and perpetuate fears of deportation among immigrant residents.

Community members who participated in the protest shared personal experiences regarding the far-reaching emotional impacts of ICE actions in their neighborhoods. Organizers from Savannah DSA have reaffirmed their commitment to supporting immigrants and advocating for a policy change that distances local law enforcement from ICE engagement.

The protests highlight ongoing debates about immigration enforcement practices and the role of local authorities in supporting or resisting federal enforcement strategies. As Savannah continues to grapple with these issues, residents are calling for transparent discussions and policies that protect vulnerable communities while addressing safety and law enforcement responsibilities.