San Diego County recently voted to further limit its collaboration with federal immigration authorities, a move drawing criticism from local Republicans. The new resolution expands upon California's existing sanctuary law, which already restricts law enforcement's cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Approved by a 3-1 vote, the resolution states that the county will not aid ICE in various ways, including denying agents access to individuals, refusing use of county facilities, and withholding information regarding incarceration status or release dates.

ICE typically uses detainers to request notification before the release of suspected illegal immigrants in custody, and sometimes requests that individuals be held until ICE can assume custody. While ICE argues this practice helps apprehend individuals without entering communities and removes offenders from the streets, sanctuary supporters counter that it discourages cooperation between law enforcement and otherwise law-abiding individuals.

The resolution's overview contends that coercing local law enforcement into carrying out deportations separates families and erodes community trust in both law enforcement and local government. It further argues that undocumented individuals, or those with undocumented loved ones, become hesitant to seek help from the county, jeopardizing public safety.

This decision comes shortly before the inauguration of the President-elect, who has pledged a large-scale deportation operation. San Diego County Board of Supervisors Chair Nora Vargas stated that California's current sanctuary laws are insufficient, as they still permit agencies to notify ICE of release dates and transfer individuals under certain conditions. The resolution mirrors a similar policy adopted by Santa Clara County in 2019.

Republican Supervisor Jim Desmond, the sole dissenting vote, strongly criticized the resolution, calling it a "direct betrayal" of the public. He argues that the measure not only surpasses California's existing sanctuary laws but also jeopardizes communities by shielding individuals who have committed crimes, including violent offenses, from deportation. Desmond has reportedly contacted members of the incoming administration and intends to challenge the policy.

This article was adapted from a report by Adam Shaw, a politics reporter for Fox News Digital.