How is this even legal?
In Colorado, a liberal activist group is attempting to intimidate local sheriffs by warning them of personal legal consequences if they cooperate with federal immigration authorities, particularly in the enforcement of President Donald Trump’s mass deportation plans. The ACLU of Colorado has sent a letter to the state’s sheriffs, threatening to hold them personally liable and subject to lawsuits if they assist the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in deporting illegal immigrants or complying with federal detainers.
Signed by ACLU officials Deborah Richardson and Tim MacDonald, the letter claims that assisting ICE could lead to “personal liability” for sheriffs and their deputies, potentially costing them tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees and damages. The ACLU compared the potential deportation efforts to the internment camps of the 1940s, a controversial reference aimed at stirring emotion and creating fear around Trump’s immigration policies.
The group also warned sheriffs that their cooperation with federal authorities in the enforcement of immigration laws could violate the Colorado Constitution, with legal ramifications for officers involved. According to the ACLU’s letter, law enforcement officers who violate constitutional rights could face significant financial consequences, including personal liability up to $25,000.
The ACLU also criticized the Aurora Police Department for its collaboration with ICE in a December operation that led to the detention of individuals connected to the violent Venezuelan gang, Tren de Aragua. In this case, police worked with ICE to arrest suspects involved in a brutal home invasion and kidnapping, which left victims hospitalized. However, the ACLU claimed that the Aurora Police overstepped their authority by working with ICE, alleging that the raid violated the rights of vulnerable immigrant communities.
In response to these claims, Roger Hudson, a city council member from Castle Pines, Colorado, expressed his frustration with the ACLU’s stance. He argued that the organization, which claims to defend Americans’ rights, is now prioritizing the rights of illegal immigrants over the hardworking taxpayers of Colorado. “The people of Colorado are fed up with the costs of failed liberal policies,” Hudson stated. He further emphasized that real change is on the way with the inauguration of President Trump, who has promised to take strong action on immigration and reduce the strain on taxpayers.
For many conservatives, the ACLU’s position represents a troubling effort to undermine law enforcement and federal immigration laws in favor of protecting illegal immigrants. As President Trump takes office, it is clear that there will be a continued push to enforce U.S. immigration laws and hold sanctuary cities and states accountable. Colorado sheriffs, in particular, will need to carefully consider their role in this evolving legal battle.
President Trump’s administration is poised to restore the rule of law when it comes to immigration, and conservatives across the country are ready to support policies that prioritize the safety and well-being of American citizens over the unchecked flow of illegal immigrants. It’s time for states like Colorado to stand firm and put the interests of legal residents first.
