Role of Local Law Enforcement remains to safeguard our communities and the deputies who serve them
information released
Citizens of Chelan County: As we face ongoing changes at the federal level, I want to address recent concerns raised regarding immigration enforcement and the recent shifts in policy from the incoming Administration.
Over the past few weeks many have reached out to ask how our office will respond to federal immigration enforcement changes, and I feel it’s important to clarify the stance of your Sheriff’s Office.
It is important to note immigration laws, deportation, and related federal matters fall under the jurisdiction of federal authorities and federal courts, not local law enforcement. To our knowledge, state and county courts do not address immigration issues they handle criminal matters, regardless of a person’s immigration status.
In regards to the Chelan County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) we will continue to collaborate with federal law enforcement agencies, as we always have, to safeguard the safety of our communities and the deputies who serve them.
While we will continue to maintain these relationships, those partnerships will remain focused on threats such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, organized crime, and terrorism.
To be clear immigration status will not be a factor in whether or not we conduct criminal investigations when a state law or local ordinance is violated. Furthermore, we will not allow someone’s immigration status to hinder investigations into crimes they may be involved in. At the same time, we are aware that some state laws intend to shield individuals from federal immigration enforcement, and while our office will not and cannot impede federal operations, we will also ensure the safety of both federal law enforcement personnel and our communities.
Additionally, Washington State Law (RCW 10.93.160) prohibits local law enforcement from assisting in or making arrests for civil immigration offenses. As such, the community will see no changes in how the Sheriff’s Office operates regarding immigration enforcement. We want to assure everyone that no one should fear reaching out to 911 for help due to their immigration status.
We also feel it is necessary to note that the Sheriff’s Office does not manage or oversee the counties regional jail. Questions regarding jail operations should be directed to your elected Board of County Commissioners (BOCC), who oversees these operations.
In closing, we want to reassure everyone that our commitment is to serve the public with integrity, fairness and respect for all individuals, regardless of their immigration status.
Respectfully,
Mike Morrison
Chelan County Sheriff
