(from news release)
Stearns County has recently been added to a list compiled by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security of “deliberately obstructing the enforcement of federal immigration laws.”
The DHS was referring to “sanctuary jurisdictions” that protect illegal immigrants – that is, cities, counties and states the DHS claims are “deliberately obstructing the enforcement of federal immigration laws.”
A Stearns County news release on May 30 stated the county has not been identified on any prior sanctuary-jurisdiction lists and has not made any changes to its practices, policies or procedures regarding immigration enforcement. The county has always cooperated and continues to cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and believes it remains fully compliant with all laws, including federal immigration laws and detainer processes.
Stearns County Sheriff Steve Soyka quickly responded to the DHS accusation.
“We were surprised to see Stearns County on this list,” said Sheriff Soyka. “Stearns County has maintained a clear and consistent approach to working and communicating with ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) and following federal requirements. What we currently do in our jail is what we have done for the past 20 years with no issues. We have always notified ICE when required. We have not received any complaints or heard of any issues from local ICE officials. In fact, during their last visit, they complimented our staff on how we handle these matters.”
As of May 30, Stearns County has not received any formal notification from DHS explaining the reasons for its designation. Until further information is provided, the county will continue operating under its current procedures, which have historically been in alignment with ICE expectations, Soyka noted.
“Our responsibility is to enforce the law and support public safety,” Soyka added. “If DHS has identified a concern, we are open to reviewing it. But as of now, we have no indication of noncompliance, and we stand by our current practices.”
In the meantime, Stearns County is awaiting additional details from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
