US Attorney launches major operation to bypass California sanctuary laws

United States Attorney for the District of California, Bill Essayli, is taking bold action to crack down on sanctuary policies in the Golden State. His new initiative, “Operation Guardian Angel,” involves a task force comprised of assets from various law enforcement agencies, including ICE, HSI, DEA, FBI, ATF, and Border Patrol. The primary objective of this task force is to scan a criminal database daily to identify arrested illegal aliens in local jurisdictions that the Department of Justice (DOJ) can charge with felony illegal re-entry.

Essayli expressed frustration with sanctuary policies that make it difficult for ICE to issue detainers and remove criminal illegal immigrants from jails. In response, the task force will begin issuing warrants for criminal illegal immigrants in county jails. According to Essayli, this strategy will make it impossible for these individuals to ignore a criminal arrest warrant, even if they choose to ignore a detainer.

The program, which is the first of its kind, will serve as a testing ground for other sanctuary jurisdictions across the country. The administration’s goal is to swiftly deport illegal aliens with criminal charges and convictions, with California being at the forefront of this effort.

While border crossings have decreased, the administration is focused on increasing the number of removals. The CBP Home app now allows individuals in the country illegally to self-deport with a paid-for flight and a $1,000 stipend once they have been confirmed to leave the country.

In terms of illegal aliens in the criminal justice system, Essayli’s jurisdiction plans to file up to 50 warrants a week. Since Trump took office, there have already been 350 warrants filed in Los Angeles.

Essayli emphasized that local authorities will comply with the warrants, and any interference in the arrest of a federal felon will result in consequences. He also noted that felony re-entry was not heavily prosecuted during the Biden administration, with only 17 cases filed in two years by his predecessor.

The attorney highlighted the importance of transferring criminal illegal immigrants from local to federal custody as a safe and effective way to apprehend these individuals. By arresting them while they are still in state custody, law enforcement can ensure a safe transfer without the presence of weapons.

Overall, Essayli’s Operation Guardian Angel is a significant step towards cracking down on sanctuary policies and removing criminal illegal immigrants from the United States. The initiative is expected to have a significant impact in California and serve as a model for other jurisdictions across the country.