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Sheriff's quarterly report draws heavy public outcry over ICE notifications; board refers policy review to equity committee
Summary
The sheriff's quarterly oversight report showed 152 ICE requests in April'June and 28 notifications in that period (55 YTD). The presentation prompted hours of public comment demanding a countywide non'cooperation ordinance; the board accepted the report and asked the equity committee to draft clearer departmental policies for protecting residents and employees.
The Contra Costa County sheriff's quarterly report (April'June) provided updated jail and field operations data and included a breakdown of ICE notification requests and the office's procedures for responding.
The sheriff told the board the department received 152 ICE requests in the reporting period and made notifications in 28 cases; year'to'date notifications stood at 55. He said a supervisory'approval step has been added for notifications and pledged to meet with the public defender to clarify authorizing offenses.
Public reaction: Hundreds of residents pressed the board during extended public comment to enact a strong, loophole'free non'cooperation ordinance banning notifications and any county collaboration with ICE. Speakers said ICE operations had created fear that reduced use of hospitals, schools and social services and urged immediate legislative or policy action.
What officials said: Supervisors asked the sheriff whether notifications were tied to specific statutory categories (citing SB 54 and state law) and whether records could be matched to charging and conviction outcomes. The sheriff said final charging decisions lie with prosecutors and courts, and that the county will explore data sharing with courts to clarify outcomes.
Board action: The board accepted the sheriff's report and directed the equity committee to examine departmental policies and return recommendations for clearer procedures that protect staff and service users at Head Start centers, county clinics and other sites. Several supervisors also urged more transparent reporting and additional public oversight options (civilian oversight/inspector general discussion was suggested).
