Letters circulate in Oregon towns urging residents to track ‘brown illegals,’ officials report

Several local Oregon officials say they have received an anonymous letter urging community members to take part in the “round-up” of suspected illegal immigrants as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office. 

The letter, titled “THE BROWN ROUND-UP PART 1,” asked Lincoln County residents to assist in “the largest round-up of brown illegals in our history,” in January 2025, The Oregonian reported. 

“Start identifying those folks who you suspect are here in our country on an illegal basis,” the letter to Toledo, Oregon Mayor Rod Cross reportedly reads. “Shortly after the 21st of January, Homeland Security will create a hotline to which you can send your information.”

This timing coincides with Trump's inauguration in late January after promising during the campaign to begin the largest deportation effort in modern American history after taking office.

“I could not believe it. And the more I read the more sickened and angry I became,” Cross told The Oregonian.

Cross says he is not the only local official to receive the letter. He said three city council members in his own city received copies. Mayor of Lincoln City, Susan Wahlke, said she also received a copy. 

The state’s attorney general released a statement about the letters, reiterating the state’s commitment to every individual, regardless of immigration status. 

“Attempts to intimidate our communities and their leaders through racist letter writing campaigns has no place in Oregon, and we will continue to stand together in opposition to those who seek to divide us,” Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum said. 

“It is time to rise above these despicable tactics and demonstrate the true spirit of inclusivity and compassion that defines the Oregon way.”

One local sheriff contacted the FBI, which said that it was aware of the letters and encouraged community members to report them to law enforcement, according to CNN.