State News

SoCal Mayor Fears Police Could Face Criminal Charges for Helping Deport Illegal Immigrants

The mayor of El Cajon, near the U.S.–Mexico border, hopes to clarify the state’s sanctuary law and comply with federal deportations.
SoCal Mayor Fears Police Could Face Criminal Charges for Helping Deport Illegal Immigrants
El Cajon Mayor Bill Wells (C) speaks to police officers in this undated photo on his campaign website. He is concerned about officers facing criminal charges and civil liability if they comply with federal deportation programs, he said on Nov. 26. Courtesy of William Wells
Jill McLaughlin
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A Southern California mayor sounded an alarm on Nov. 25 that complying with federal deportations could violate California’s sanctuary law and put police officers in his city at risk of losing their jobs and their pensions.

Bill Wells, mayor of El Cajon, about 40 miles from the U.S.–Mexico border in San Diego County, claims that city police officers could face misdemeanor charges in California if they cooperate with federal authorities to deport illegal immigrants.

Jill McLaughlin
Jill McLaughlin
Author
Jill McLaughlin is an award-winning journalist covering politics, environment, and statewide issues. She has been a reporter and editor for newspapers in Oregon, Nevada, and New Mexico. Jill was born in Yosemite National Park and enjoys the majestic outdoors, traveling, golfing, and hiking.