Colorado sheriffs are taking a stand against laws that hinder their ability to address illegal immigration in their communities
Ten sheriffs from various counties in Colorado testified in favor of a bill that aims to reverse existing laws preventing local law enforcement agencies from collaborating with federal partners, such as U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcement (ICE), to enforce immigration laws and deport undocumented residents.
The bill, HB 24-1128, seeks to overturn two laws, HB 19-1124 and HB 23-1100, that have limited the ability of sheriffs to work with ICE. The El Paso County Sheriff's Office (EPSO) and Teller County Sheriff's Office (TCSO) are among the law enforcement agencies affected by these laws.
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Sheriff Joe Roybal of El Paso County expressed his frustration, stating, "The only federal agency the state of Colorado prevents me from working with is ICE. I ask the question, why is that?"
Sheriff Jason Mikesell of Teller County highlighted the importance of collaboration with ICE to address immigrant-related crime within the United States.
The sheriffs argue that under current laws, once an undocumented migrant is arrested or detained for committing a crime, they can be released back onto the streets without a proper way to track their criminal history. This lack of communication and collaboration with ICE hinders law enforcement's ability to ensure public safety and hold criminals accountable.
Sheriff Roybal emphasized the impact on victims, stating, "We have documented cases where people have committed a crime, we posted a bond, never to be seen or heard from again. That victim is left without justice because that person has evaded justice by leaving our country."
Contrary to misconceptions, the sheriffs stressed that their goal is not to conduct sweeping mass arrests or target innocent individuals. Rather, they aim to focus on individuals who have committed crimes or are suspected of committing crimes.
Collaboration with federal agencies such as ICE enables law enforcement to ensure that those who have violated the law are appropriately dealt with.
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Opponents of the bill, such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Colorado, argue that it would undermine evidence-based policies, make communities less safe, and erode public trust. They also express concerns about the involvement of private jailers with a history of abusive practices and profit-seeking through unnecessary detentions.
The bill is currently under review by the state, civic, military, and veterans affairs committee, with a hearing scheduled for February 22.
Colorado sheriffs believe that by working with federal agencies, they can better protect their communities and ensure that justice is served.
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