Immigrations Custom Enforcement (ICE) is planning raids sweeping Northern California in the coming weeks to arrest 1,500 undocumented people, according to a Jan. 16 report from the San Francisco Chronicle.
“We are not able to speculate about future enforcement actions,” said San Francisco ICE spokesman James Schwab in an email.
Although SCPD has historically cooperated with ICE and the Department of Homeland Security, current Police Chief Andrew Mills has stated on multiple occasions that the department will not cooperate with any immigration services. Chief Mills was unable to be reached for a comment at this time.
While specifics are still unknown about the raid, speculation is circulating that potential ICE raids could be in
response to recent California sanctuary state legislation that prohibits local law enforcement from working with ICE. The threat directly comes from the federal administration, said Doug Keegan, program director and attorney for the Santa Cruz County Immigration Project.
“These threats by ICE, directed by a misguided administration, will tear apart families and inflict immeasurable pain on hard-working individuals whose only
crime is answering the call for a better life and plentiful job opportunities in the U.S.,” Keegan said.
Keegan advised to avoid opening the door if ICE agents are outside and to remain silent if stopped by ICE. Additionally, if your documentation status and residence is known, it is recommended you find an alternative place to take shelter and avoid vehicle violations.
