LA Supervisor Kathryn Barger on Sanctuary Policies and Immigration Enforcement

Sanctuary Policies Under Scrutiny

• ⚠️ Supervisor Kathryn Barger asserts that Los Angeles' sanctuary city policies are not functioning effectively.
• 🎯 She criticizes the practice of releasing individuals back into the community without cooperation with ICE, stating, "This is what you get when you don't work with ICE."
• 💡 Barger highlights a specific incident where an office staff member's godson was pulled over by someone without a badge in an unmarked car, fueling fears of impersonators.

Consequences of Non-Cooperation

• ⛓️ The supervisor explains that ICE was removed from LA County jails, preventing the apprehension of felons after they served their time, leading to their release back into the community.
• ⚖️ Barger points out that a state law prevents cooperation with ICE, but questions the outcome of such policies, especially when federal promises of deporting undocumented immigrants with serious crimes are not fully realized.
• 🚩 She expresses dismay over protesters burning and spitting on the American flag, viewing it as a message that has become "absolutely out of hand."

Addressing Protests and Anarchy

• 🚨 Barger applauds the mayor's curfew decision, recognizing that opportunists and anarchists often emerge at night to undermine the rule of law.
• 💥 She describes some protest groups as well-orchestrated and funded, aiming to "take down the government."

Path Forward: Federal Cooperation

• 🤝 Barger emphasizes the necessity of working with the federal government, including ICE, as a partner, regardless of personal feelings.
• 🏗️ She stresses the importance of federal support for rebuilding parts of her district that were damaged, aligning with her oath to uphold the Constitution and support constituents.
• 🗣️ Barger acknowledges being alone on the board regarding her stance on sanctuary policies but remains committed to her consistent position on working with federal authorities.

Law Enforcement and Community Trust

• 👮 Law enforcement, including LAPD and the Sheriff's Department, are grateful for the National Guard's assistance, though oversight remains a point of contention.
• 😥 The supervisor notes that sheriffs are overworked, citing an example of a young sheriff who died after working extensive overtime, underscoring the need for collaboration.
• 💬 While acknowledging the argument that sanctuary policies build community trust, Barger maintains her belief that cooperation with federal authorities is essential for public safety and community well-being.