Washington Attorney General Nick Brown is taking a bold step by suing the Adams County Sheriff’s Office. He claims they are breaking state law by working with federal officials to enforce immigration laws.
The lawsuit, filed in Spokane County Superior Court, argues that the sheriff’s office is detaining undocumented immigrants based on their immigration status. It also says they are helping federal agents question people in custody and sharing personal information of Washington residents. Brown believes this behavior goes against the 2019 Keep Washington Working Act, which protects residents from local law enforcement’s involvement in federal immigration enforcement.
Brown is pushing for the court to ensure the sheriff’s office, under Sheriff Dale Wagner, follows this law. He stated, “Washington has the right and responsibility to decide how to use its resources to keep residents safe.” He emphasized that it is unacceptable for officials to ignore state law and put community safety at risk.
According to Brown’s office, most sheriff departments comply with the Keep Washington Working Act, except for a few, including Adams County. His office accused the sheriff’s department of illegally collaborating with federal immigration officials and supporting the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement policies.
In the lawsuit, Brown mentioned past negotiations with Adams County, suggesting they initially showed willingness to comply. However, he claims that following Trump’s inauguration, the county shifted its position and broke off talks, aligning instead with a conservative organization led by Stephen Miller, a key Trump advisor known for his strong anti-immigrant stance.
This organization, called America First Legal, released a statement criticizing the lawsuit. They argue that Washington state officials are trying to enforce laws that go against federal immigration rules. They believe it’s wrong for the state to target Adams County for cooperating with federal authorities to maintain safety.
America First Legal also asserted that federal laws must be followed and stressed that it’s a crime to hide or protect undocumented immigrants. They see Washington’s efforts as undermining federal law and facilitating what they view as an invasion of the country.
Check out this related article: Exclusive: Oxford Center CEO Allegedly Obstructed Investigation into Hyperbaric Chamber Explosion
Source link