California may become a sanctuary state, but one local sheriff says he will continue to protect his community. That includes working with Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials when a criminal undocumented immigrant lands in his jail.
El Dorado County Sheriff John D'Agostini said he believes the sanctuary state bill being considered by the California Legislature flies in the face of federal law, which he claimed will reign supreme for law enforcement officials and the courts when it comes to immigration issues.
The sheriff added he knows that will put him "sideways with the state," but he said his department will follow all laws, and he noted he believes to continue to do so is the right thing to do.
D'Agostini said the El Dorado County Sheriff's Department has never done immigration round-ups and will not start conducting them now.
His only concern is that the State Attorney General might come knocking on his door with the intent of removing the sheriff from office.
El Dorado County District Attorney Vern Pierson said he does not believe California's sanctuary state bill would pass a constitutional test.