Introduction to the Decision
The City of Glendale announced Sunday it was ending its agreement with Homeland Security and ICE to hold federal detainees in its jail.
The decision comes after scrutiny from community members and activists who said the collaboration went against sanctuary city laws.
Background and Community Reaction
"This local decision reflects our core values: public safety, transparency, and community trust. The Glendale Police Department does not enforce immigration laws and remains fully compliant with SB 54," wrote the city. Since January, 82 people were detained by ICE and housed in the Glendale City Jail. A city spokesperson told NBC4 those detainees spent between six to 12 hours in the jail facility, but they are not fingerprinted or booked.
Details of the Detention Process
The city insisted that the jail only provided a bed, food, water, and medical care to the individuals. They added that they do not house any minors. In 2017, Senate Bill 54 was passed, making California the first sanctuary state in the nation. Under the bill, state and local law enforcement are prohibited from allowing federal immigration authorities to use space in their facility.
Controversy Surrounding the Contract
Detainees of ICE are being held in Glendale, in what some immigration advocates are calling a violation of California’s sanctuary state law. This video was broadcasted on the NBC4 News at 11 p.m. on June 5, 2025. Glendale says it’s had a contract with ICE since 2007. Andres Kwon, with the American Civil Liberties Union, calls the city’s agreement with ICE a violation of California law.
Advocacy for Termination of the Contract
"Ultimately and effectively, this Glendale contract with ICE is helping the Trump administration carry out its mass deportation agenda that is racist and has abused countless peoples, constitutional, civil and human rights," said Andres Kwon. "It’s shocking Glendale has this contract and it should end immediately." At a city council meeting, an immigration attorney claimed her client was not provided food at the facility and urged the council to reconsider the contract.
City Council Response
Councilmember Elen Asatryan insisted the city is in full compliance with SB 54, according to Glendale’s police chief. The city’s decision to terminate the contract reflects a shift towards aligning with the values and laws of the state, prioritizing community trust and transparency.
Conclusion
The termination of the contract between Glendale and ICE marks a significant step towards compliance with California’s sanctuary state law. The decision comes after mounting pressure from community members and advocacy groups, highlighting the importance of transparency and community trust in local governance. As the city moves forward, it will be crucial to monitor the implementation of this decision and its impact on the community.
FAQs
- Q: What was the nature of the contract between Glendale and ICE?
A: The contract allowed ICE to house federal detainees in the Glendale City Jail. - Q: How long did detainees typically stay in the Glendale City Jail?
A: Detainees spent between six to 12 hours in the jail facility. - Q: Does the Glendale City Jail house minors?
A: No, the city does not house any minors. - Q: What prompted the city to terminate the contract with ICE?
A: The decision came after community scrutiny and concerns that the collaboration violated sanctuary city laws. - Q: What does Senate Bill 54 entail?
A: Senate Bill 54, passed in 2017, makes California a sanctuary state, prohibiting state and local law enforcement from allowing federal immigration authorities to use space in their facilities.
