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Chino police, city attorney reiterate department does not engage in immigration enforcement; state law cited
Summary
Following public comment criticizing the Chino Police Department’s alleged cooperation with ICE, the city attorney and a police representative stated the department does not conduct immigration enforcement and follows SB 54 (California Values Act); officers may assist other agencies for officer safety in emergencies.
After public commenters raised concerns about the Chino Police Department’s cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the city attorney and police representatives clarified policy during the June 17 meeting.
Carissa Ramirez, a lifelong Chino resident, said she was “extremely displeased” with a Chief’s social‑media statement and urged the city to refuse cooperation with ICE, citing statewide examples where cities limited participation. Ramirez asked the council to publicly commit to protecting all constituents.
City Attorney Ray Galante and a Chino Police Department representative responded later in the meeting, saying the department does not participate in immigration enforcement and that the department’s internal policy and California law — specifically Senate Bill 54 (the California Values Act) — limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Galante and department leadership said officers have been retrained on policy and that, while the department will not perform immigration enforcement, officers may assist other agencies in an emergency to protect life or officer safety.
The city attorney and police urged residents to contact the department with concerns and assured the council the department’s priority remains public safety and equitable service to all residents regardless of immigration status.
