San Diego County Police Chiefs and Sheriff Say Local Officers Are Not Enforcing Immigration Law

Local law enforcement leaders in San Diego County moved this week to ease anxiety among immigrant residents as federal immigration enforcement activity grows across the region. A statement issued June 10 by Chula Vista Police Chief Roxana Kennedy made the case that local police are there to protect the public, not to carry out immigration enforcement.

Kennedy spoke on behalf of the San Diego County Chiefs and Sheriff's Association. She acknowledged the unease that recent federal operations have caused and said local officers do not enforce federal immigration laws. They also do not question people about their immigration status, she said.

"Our focus is, and will remain, the safety and well-being of all our communities," the statement read.

The advisory arrives at a time of rising tension, with reports of federal immigration activity in several counties. Community groups have voiced concern that local police could be helping with enforcement efforts, and the association's statement responded to that worry directly.

According to the statement, when local agencies are present at federal operations, their role is limited to safety. "This support is strictly for safety and security purposes and does not reflect participation in immigration enforcement," Kennedy said.

The association also addressed demonstrations. It urged residents who choose to protest to do so peacefully, while cautioning that unlawful acts such as vandalism, assault or arson will be dealt with according to the law.

The statement pointed to California Senate Bill 54, the California Values Act, which bars local law enforcement from using their resources for immigration enforcement. The law has been in effect since 2018 and was written to keep local policing separate from federal immigration duties.

By restating that policy, local law enforcement leaders hope to rebuild trust with immigrant communities that may feel vulnerable during the ongoing federal crackdowns. The association said it remains committed to upholding justice and fairness in all neighborhoods, regardless of immigration status.