Minneapolis Police Department Swears in First ‘Non-Citizen’ Officer to the Police Force

The Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) recently made headlines by swearing in its first non-citizen officer and its first Somali female officer, marking a significant milestone for the department.

Ikran Mohamed and Lesly Vera were part of a group of nearly two dozen new recruits to join the MPD.

Mohamed became the first Somali female officer in the force’s history, while Vera, originally from Mexico, became the department’s first non-citizen officer.

Lesly Vera’s story highlights a new development in Minnesota law, which now permits permanent residents who are non-citizens to serve as police officers.

Vera has lived in the United States since she was four years old and has spent most of her life in Minneapolis, which she considers her home, despite never obtaining U.S. citizenship.

This change in the law has sparked debate over the role of non-citizens in law enforcement, with MPD Chief Brian O’Hara defending the decision.

“There may be people who question it, but that’s completely ridiculous. There’s a history in this country of people, immediately upon arrival, enlisting in the military and serving,” O’Hara stated.

He drew a comparison between non-citizens joining the police force and immigrants historically enlisting in the U.S. military.

However, the MPD’s decision to allow non-citizens to serve in law enforcement raises important concerns about the responsibilities and duties of police officers in the United States.

Law enforcement and military positions are traditionally reserved for U.S. citizens, as these roles require a deep understanding of and commitment to the country’s values, laws, and constitution.

By allowing non-citizens to serve as police officers, some critics argue that the bond of loyalty and accountability that comes with citizenship may be weakened.

Citizenship is more than just a legal status; it signifies an individual’s commitment to the country and its laws. Those who go through the naturalization process demonstrate a desire to fully integrate into American society and abide by the principles that govern it.

For many, law enforcement officers should be individuals who have gone through this process, as their job is to uphold and enforce the law.

Critics argue that non-citizens, even those who are permanent residents, may lack a complete understanding of the communities they serve and the country’s legal system, which could undermine their ability to carry out their duties effectively.

In roles as sensitive and critical as law enforcement, where public trust is paramount, these differences could create friction between officers and the communities they are tasked with protecting.

The decision to allow non-citizens into the police force comes at a time when the MPD is trying to rebuild its image and regain public trust, particularly in the aftermath of high-profile incidents involving police misconduct.

While the inclusion of diverse voices and perspectives in law enforcement can be a positive step forward, the debate over whether non-citizens should serve in these roles continues to raise questions about loyalty, accountability, and the future of public safety.

The new law and the recruitment of non-citizen officers reflect changing attitudes toward immigration and public service in the U.S., but the long-term impact of this decision on law enforcement remains to be seen.