The U.S. Border Patrol arrested a student outside of the College of Lake County at its campus in downtown Waukegan Monday morning, the school confirmed.
The College of Lake County (CLC) said in an alert around 12 p.m. Monday that immigration agents apprehended a male individual at the corner of Sheridan Road and Madison Street in Waukegan.
The school initially said they had not confirmed whether the individual was a student of the college.
CLC said in an updated statement that the arrest was witnessed by students, staff and community members.
The arrest occurred directly in front of the CLC — Lakeshore Campus, 34 North Sheridan Road.
“It has not been verified that the individual was a CLC student. ICE did not enter the premises of the Lakeshore Campus. The apprehension was outside of the building,” the statement said.
“Please know that the faculty and staff are here to support a calm and safe learning environment for you and to ensure that you have access to the resources that you need,” CLC said.
College leadership and the CLC Police were working through “this dynamic situation.”
“Our first priority is to support the Lakeshore Campus and to make the college community aware of ICE activity near the CLC campus and in Lake County,” they said.
CLC later confirmed on Tuesday that the individual taken into custody by Border Patrol agents was a student of the school.
The college said they ensured that the student’s family was notified and connected to resources.
“The College is in communication with local and state elected officials regarding the situation. The College, in partnership with local community organizations, is working to support students and their families,” CLC said in an updated statement.
The college said that since the matter involves ongoing federal proceedings and privacy protections, they were unable to release additional details.
CLC said that they offer confidential resources and assistance through Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) across all campuses by calling 847-543-2032.
The college also said that its police department works in partnership with faculty and staff to provide a “safe and welcoming environment” and does not participate in immigration enforcement operations in accordance with Illinois law.
“CLC remains focused on its mission to serve the diverse communities of Lake County and is invested in the safety and well-being of all students and employees. CLC will continue to ensure a welcoming, inclusive and positive learning environment for students to achieve success,” the statement said.