Federal immigration agents arrived at the Santa Cruz Main Jail Saturday morning in an attempt to take a person into custody but left without detaining anyone, the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office said.
During the incident, community members, including volunteers from Your Allied Rapid Response (YARR), were present in the jail parking lot and documented the activity.
“I’m proud of our Sheriff’s Office for its professionalism and commitment to public safety, California law, and community trust,” said Tony Nuñez, who was elected in June to the 4th District seat on the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors. “The department has reaffirmed that it does not participate in civil immigration enforcement or coordinate ICE’s operations.”
Nuñez also praised YARR volunteers.
“They mobilized quickly, organized effectively, and maintained a calm, measured presence during a tense situation. Their preparation and dedication to looking out for our neighbors deserve our thanks.”
YARR posted on social media that the organization had received reports of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents at the jail and sent trained volunteers to observe. Volunteers reported seeing several agents and two vehicles.
“Earlier in the day ICE agents left the area initially, then returned,” YARR posted on Facebook.
As of 3:21 p.m. Saturday, YARR reported that the agents were no longer present.
“The Sheriff’s Office recognizes that incidents involving federal immigration enforcement can create concern and uncertainty for individuals, families, and members of the broader community,” the agency said in a statement.
The Sheriff’s Office said it does not notify ICE of scheduled release dates, participate in civil immigration enforcement or provide criminal history information to ICE for civil immigration enforcement purposes.
The agency does, however, comply with valid judicial warrants and court orders as required by law.
It was not clear Sunday whom the agents were seeking, why that person was in custody or whether the person was scheduled for release.
It was also unclear why the agents left the jail without anyone in custody.
Sheriff’s Office spokeswoman Ashley Keehn did not respond to a request for comment.
Federal agencies determine their own enforcement activities and operational schedules, the Sheriff’s Office said.
People seeking information about their rights during interactions with immigration authorities can visit susderechos.info.
YARR operates a 24-hour hotline for reporting immigration enforcement activity at 831.239.4289. For information, visit santacruzrapidresponse.org.
