The Orange County Sheriff’s Department, led by Sheriff Don Barnes, will not enforce federal immigration laws, as stated in a report to the Orange County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday. Sheriff Barnes emphasized that his department focuses on state and local law violations, not immigration enforcement. “We do not, and never will, ask the immigration status of victims, witnesses, suspects, or those who call to report crimes,” Barnes stated.
Despite California’s sanctuary laws, which limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities, the sheriff’s department has transferred 221 individuals to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody last year, as allowed under the TRUTH Act. Barnes made it clear that his office will not obstruct ICE’s operations but will not actively participate in federal immigration enforcement either.
Barnes criticized California’s sanctuary state law, arguing it limits communication with federal authorities about criminal offenders violating immigration laws. He expressed concerns that individuals not picked up by ICE continue to pose threats to the community. Barnes highlighted that his department received nearly 4,000 ICE detainer requests, but only a fraction were honored due to state laws.
Activists and community members voiced concerns about ICE detainer requests, arguing they create fear in immigrant communities and undermine public safety. Carlos Perea, executive director for the Harbor Institute for Immigrant and Economic Justice, stated that such practices negatively impact the local economy and community trust.
Recent Comments