Amador County, CA (Feb 18, 2025) – In a move stirring debate across Northern California, the Amador County Sheriff’s Office has declared its intention to collaborate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to deport undocumented individuals deemed a “serious threat” to public safety. Sheriff Gary Redman announced on Tuesday that his department will notify ICE upon identifying undocumented individuals involved in severe criminal activities, including gang affiliations, homicide, sexual assault, and domestic violence.
“This is a public safety-first approach,” Redman emphasized in an interview with FOX40.com. He clarified that the policy is not an anti-immigration stance but a measure to protect the community from violent offenders.
While Amador County has not experienced significant issues with undocumented individuals committing serious crimes, the sheriff’s office has encountered cartel members linked to illegal cannabis operations. Redman noted that although large-scale illicit grows have been largely dismantled, any resurgence involving undocumented participants would prompt immediate ICE notification.
This policy emerges amidst a broader state context where California legislation, notably Senate Bill 54 (SB 54), restricts local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Governor Gavin Newsom has recently reaffirmed his support for SB 54, indicating plans to veto Assembly Bill 15, which seeks to further limit state prisons’ collaboration with ICE. Newsom contends that existing laws appropriately balance community trust with the deportation of serious criminals.
POLITICO
Sheriff Redman expressed concern over state policies, suggesting they favor criminal elements. “It’s really important to note that our state legislation… and our governor have really just said that ‘being a criminal is no longer a problem – we are going to do everything we can to help criminals,'” he stated. “Even violent criminals that pose a safety risk – they want us to then in turn, turn a blind eye and I’m just not willing to do that.”
As of now, the Amador County Sheriff’s Office has not referred any cases to ICE under this new policy. Redman describes the announcement as a proactive measure, ensuring that his department is prepared to act in the event they encounter undocumented individuals involved in serious criminal activities.
This development highlights the ongoing tension between local and state policies in California regarding immigration enforcement and public safety.
