DOJ Warns California Officials Over ICE Arrests
On Thursday, the Justice Department issued a warning to California officials, including Representative Nancy Pelosi, regarding what they termed an “apparent criminal conspiracy” aimed at detaining Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.
Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche wrote to Pelosi, Governor Gavin Newsom, Attorney General Rob Bonta, and San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins following Pelosi’s recent comment suggesting that local law enforcement could arrest ICE agents if they breach state regulations during immigration enforcement activities.
Blanche expressed concern about the stance of California politicians, saying, “Instead of cooperating with federal law enforcement, representatives like Pelosi and Jenkins are urging local authorities to arrest federal officers implementing laws established by Congress, like immigration law.”
He further stated, “The Department of Justice regards the arrest of federal officers performing their duties as unlawful and unproductive. Multiple federal laws exist to prohibit interference with immigration and law enforcement efforts.”
Blanche highlighted that the Justice Department is prepared to “investigate and prosecute state and local officials” who disregard federal laws or incite others to do so.
Moreover, California authorities have been instructed to “preserve all written and electronic communications and records” related to any efforts that could obstruct federal law enforcement activities.
“We urge California leaders to publicly renounce this apparent criminal conspiracy, halt threats against law enforcement, and instead focus on public safety,” Blanche added. “Federal officers will continue to execute their duties and will not be deterred by threats from California officials who seem to neglect their obligations to protect the public.”
In light of anticipated ICE operations in the Bay Area, Pelosi and Representative Kevin Mullin issued a joint statement. They contended that state law “restricts federal officials from undertaking certain actions.”
The lawmakers remarked, “While the president might be shielded by a flawed Supreme Court ruling, those following his directives are not. Our local and state authorities have the right to arrest federal agents if they violate our laws. Furthermore, should they be convicted, the president cannot grant them a pardon.”
Pelosi’s office has yet to respond to requests for comment from various news outlets.
“Resign or you will face prosecution,” Blanche warned. He emphasized, “No one will intimidate our agents. We will continue our efforts to ensure America remains safe.”
