LASD Transfers Inmates to ICE Under California Law: Sheriff Luna Addresses Judicial Warrant Process, Serious Charges, and SB 54 Compliance

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LASD Transfers 20 Inmates to ICE Custody – Here’s Why

Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna clarified the department’s approach to inmate transfers to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), emphasizing compliance with California laws and county policies. During a recent press conference, he addressed growing public interest in how these decisions are made and under what legal frameworks they occur.

Sheriff Luna Reaffirms Commitment to SB 54 and County Policy

Sheriff Luna stated that the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) strictly follows California Senate Bill 54 (SB 54) and the 2020 Los Angeles County directive, both of which limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

“We will only transfer an individual into ICE custody if we are presented with a federal judicial warrant signed by a judge,” Luna said. “This procedure is fully aligned with state law and county policy.”

Transfers Are Limited to Serious and Violent Offenders

According to Sheriff Luna, as of Thursday, LASD has transferred 20 individuals to ICE. These transfers were based on judicially authorized warrants, and the individuals involved were accused of serious or violent offenses.

“Most of the individuals we’ve transferred had charges such as attempted murder, rape, robbery, or sexual battery,” Luna explained. “These cases meet the criteria where cooperation with ICE is lawful, necessary, and ensures public safety.”

Judicial Warrants: Key Requirement for Cooperation

Sheriff Luna stressed that ICE detainers alone are not sufficient for an inmate transfer in Los Angeles County. A judicially signed warrant is required to ensure due process and uphold California’s sanctuary policies.

“These warrants provide a legal and peaceful mechanism to handle individuals who pose serious risks to the community,” he said.

LASD Balancing Public Safety and Legal Compliance

Sheriff Luna concluded by emphasizing that LASD’s top priority is public safety while strictly adhering to state laws designed to protect immigrant communities. The department continues to walk a fine line between cooperating with federal authorities under lawful conditions and upholding California’s sanctuary state principles.

For more updates on LASD procedures and immigration-related policies, stay connected with local law enforcement channels.