Whatcom County Sheriff Addresses Federal Immigration Enforcement Activity

BELLINGHAM, WASHINGTON – In recent weeks, Whatcom County Sheriff Donnell “Tank” Tanksley, along with other Washington Sheriffs, has been approached regarding anticipated changes in federal immigration enforcement policies. Community members have expressed differing concerns, with some urging cooperation in federal enforcement efforts, while others advocate for resistance.

Sheriff Tanksley has clarified the stance of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office in an Email to Bellingham Metro News by referencing the Keep Washington Working Act (KWW), passed by the Washington State Legislature in 2019. The KWW Act (Laws of 2019 ch. 440, E2SB 5497) establishes that state and local law enforcement agencies are not primarily responsible for enforcing civil federal immigration laws. The legislation affirms that an individual’s immigration status, presence in the country, or employment alone does not warrant police action, emphasizing that federal authorities hold the jurisdiction for immigration enforcement.

“Deportation, immigration, and federal law enforcement matters fall under the jurisdiction of federal courts and are not part of my elected office or sworn duty,” said Sheriff Tanksley.

Despite this, the Sheriff’s Office maintains a collaborative relationship with federal law enforcement agencies in efforts to protect public safety and support criminal investigations. Sheriff Tanksley reaffirmed that local law enforcement’s role remains focused on criminal activities that directly impact the community, rather than immigration enforcement.

The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office will not take enforcement action based solely on a person’s immigration status. “A person’s immigration status is not a factor in our criminal investigations unless state law explicitly requires it, such as in cases involving violations of alien possession of firearms (RCW 9.41.173),” Tanksley noted.

Sheriff Tanksley highlighted that the primary mission of his office is to protect lives and reduce crime, ensuring that all individuals within the community enjoy a high quality of life. “We will continue to pursue our duty without bias and in the most professional and compassionate manner possible,” he added.

As discussions surrounding federal immigration enforcement continue, the Sheriff’s Office remains committed to transparency and collaboration while adhering to state laws and priorities focused on community safety.