Residents, faith leaders press Kern County to inspect ICE detention centers under SB 1132

Dozens of residents, volunteers and faith leaders told the Kern County Board of Supervisors on Oct. 7 that detained people at local ICE facilities are facing unsafe, inhumane conditions and urged county-ordered inspections under state law.

At public comment, Eddie Lane, who said he visited California City’s detention center on Sept. 26, described withheld medications, extreme lockdowns and poor water and recreation conditions and asked the board to "come visit Carlos with me. Come with me. You will never be the same after your visit." Lane urged testing of water and air, review of medical records and private interviews of detained people (Eddie Lane).

Faith leaders and community organizers echoed those requests. Sister Marie Frances Schroeepfer asked the supervisors to "grab hold of that power" under Senate Bill 1132 and direct the Kern County Department of Health to investigate alleged delays in medical care and unsanitary conditions at facilities. Elizabeth Palencia of Building Healthy Communities Kern said court records show a pattern of neglect and asserted that the county public health officer, Dr. Christopher Leon, "has stated he has no intention of inspecting" facilities unless ordered by the governor (Elizabeth Palencia). Several speakers warned that failing to inspect could create legal and fiscal liability for the county.

Supervisor Philip Peters asked whether inspections are required under SB 1132. A county representative said public health has issued a statement and is "prepping to expand their inspection efforts" to include additional detention facilities covered under the law, and hopes to begin inspections in early 2026. Supervisors said they would refer the matter to the CAO and public health staff for follow-up and timeline clarity.

Several family members described the personal impacts of transfers to California City, which they said has made visitation difficult or impossible. One spouse described driving 30 minutes with young children to see her husband and said the transfer to a remote desert facility now prevents routine visits, which she called "very, very disrespectful." Other speakers warned of trauma effects on detained people and on their communities.

Chair and supervisors thanked speakers for their testimony and asked staff to report back; the CAO's office and public health were noted as the follow-up leads. No formal inspection directive from the board was recorded on the floor that day; staff statements indicated planning for inspections but an estimated start in early 2026.

The board moved on to other agenda items and scheduled follow-up with the CAO and public health staff to clarify next steps.