Bucks County DA Investigates Quakertown Police Response to ICE Protest: A Deep Dive
The Bucks County District Attorney’s Office has launched an independent investigation into the actions of the Quakertown Borough Police Department during a student walkout protesting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on February 20, 2026. The investigation follows a press conference held by community advocates and parents of students who were arrested during clashes with police.
Escalation at the Protest
The protest began with approximately 50 Quakertown High School students marching along 5th and Broad streets. According to police statements, a portion of the protesters engaged in disruptive and unsafe behavior, prompting police intervention. At least five teenagers and one adult were taken into custody. Parents and community members allege that officers used excessive force against minors, escalating what began as a peaceful demonstration.
Chief McElree’s Involvement Under Scrutiny
Videos circulating online have raised serious questions about the police response. Witnesses have identified Quakertown Borough Police Chief Scott McElree, who was in plainclothes at the time, as engaging in a physical altercation with students. A student reportedly hit the chief with a cellphone during the scuffle, leading to further chaos. The chief has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Community Outcry and Demand for Transparency
A group consisting of parents of detained students and local civil rights organizations – including the Bucks County NAACP, Bucks County Indivisible, Upper Bucks United, and Welcome PA – gathered outside the Quakertown Police Station on Saturday, February 21, 2026, demanding answers. Adrienne King, President of the Bucks County NAACP, emphasized the high standard of care and restraint expected when law enforcement interacts with young people.
DA’s Office Seeks Public Assistance
The Bucks County District Attorney’s Office is actively seeking information from the public, including any video footage or photos of the incident. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the Bucks County Detectives at 215-348-6354. The DA’s office stated its commitment to a “thorough and transparent review” of the events.
Police Account of Events
Quakertown police stated that officers repeatedly warned protesters to stay out of traffic and to stop damaging cars. They claim additional officers were called to the scene when confrontations escalated and some individuals assaulted officers.
The Broader Context: ICE Protests and Sanctuary City Movements
This incident in Quakertown occurs against a backdrop of widespread protests following the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis at the hands of federal immigration officials. These events have fueled calls for increased protections for immigrants and for cities and counties to adopt “sanctuary” policies, limiting cooperation with ICE. Philadelphia City Council members are currently considering measures to enshrine “sanctuary” status and ban ICE masking.
Pro Tip:
Documenting protests and police interactions is crucial for accountability. If you witness an event, safely record video or take photos, and share them with trusted news organizations or advocacy groups.
FAQ
Q: What is the Bucks County DA investigating?
A: The DA is investigating the Quakertown Borough Police Department’s response to a student walkout protesting ICE.
Q: How can the public facilitate with the investigation?
A: The public can submit video footage or photos of the incident to the Bucks County Detectives at 215-348-6354.
Q: What are “sanctuary” policies?
A: “Sanctuary” policies limit cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.
Q: Who is Scott McElree?
A: Scott McElree is the Quakertown Borough Police Chief.
Did you know? The Bucks County NAACP, Bucks County Indivisible, Upper Bucks United, and Welcome PA are among the organizations demanding answers regarding the police response.
Stay informed about this developing story. For updates, follow the Bucks County Courier Times and WHYY.
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