ICE’s Presence at Super Bowl LX Sparks Controversy

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is set to be present at Super Bowl LX next month in Santa Clara, California. However, the county sheriff has expressed his unwillingness to cooperate with the agency.

Santa Clara County Sheriff Bob Johnsen stated that while ICE may be in the area for the Seattle Seahawks versus New England Patriots game, he will not assist with any immigration enforcement activities. He emphasized this during a recent news conference.

“To our federal partners, if you’re planning an operation in our community, we ask for transparency and for you to engage local officials, so we can provide the best support,” Johnsen remarked.

Johnsen also reiterated, “We are not changing our policies or protocols. We won’t be cooperating with, or supporting, ICE’s immigration enforcement. However, if you see us around, we are there to help. If anyone in uniform is present and you feel uneasy, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.”

At the same time, he mentioned that local law enforcement will be ready to ensure community safety during the event. “When you arrive, whether it’s from the train or bus, you will likely encounter uniformed officers. Trust that they are there for your safety, regardless of what they are wearing,” he added.

Johnsen shared that he has been in discussions with numerous community members over the past year, aiming to maintain open communication about what to expect during the event. He noted the importance of transparency, saying, “If someone is hiding their identity, then there’s a communication breakdown, and we’ve worked hard to build trust in our community.”

ICE has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding this situation.

Meanwhile, Tricia McLaughlin Yoho, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security, stated that investigators are likely to conduct enforcement operations soon. She highlighted DHS’s commitment to work with local and federal partners to ensure the safety of all those involved at the Super Bowl.

Corey Lewandowski, a DHS Counsel, mentioned last October that enforcement actions directed by the president would not pause for the Super Bowl. He stressed that there would be no safe place for individuals residing in the country illegally, stating, “We will find you and deport you. This is a very real situation.”

In an interesting note, President Donald Trump has announced he won’t be attending this year’s Super Bowl, making him the first sitting president to skip the event after attending last year.