MATTAWA — Following a couple of recent arrests made by the Department of Homeland Security, the Mattawa Police Department has fielded many questions and concerns regarding the nature of the arrests and the MAPD’s involvement with them.

“We’re trying to be as transparent as we can with the public,” said MAPD chief, Joe Harris.

Having DHS in the area making arrests caused some alarm with residents Harris explained, and had many wondering if they were part of an immigration raid. Harris explained that the arrests were not part of an immigration raid, and that the MAPD only assists with DHS operations if it can be proven that the person(s) in question have a criminal record.

Harris went on to say whenever instances come up in regards to immigration, the MAPD posts updates on their Facebook page in order to keep residents informed about the operations that take place. He added the MAPD also responds to all questions and concerns that are messaged in from residents. The MAPD’s transparency, he said, has generated a lot of positive feedback in comments from the public.

In the case of the two recent arrests, Juan Carlos Mendoza was arrested for a history of drug possession, and Emilio Aguilar Cohetzaltita was arrested for a history of firearm offenses.

“This is targeted towards individuals with substantial criminal records,” said Harris.

The MAPD strives to maintain the safety of all Mattawa residents Harris said, and does not engage in immigration enforcement.