The Island County Sheriff's Office posted this to his Facebook page on 2026-01-30 12:40:58.
A message from Sheriff Felici:
Many people in our county are experiencing uncertainty, fear, and stress related to federal immigration enforcement actions and related protests. Others believe that the immigration related enforcement is just, and they support continued ICE operations. Both sides want to know what the local government, particularly law enforcement, is “going to do about it”.
There are some key points that I feel compelled to reiterate. First, deputies from the Island County Sheriff’s Office adhere to Washington State law. In accordance with the Keep Washington Working Act, the Island County Sheriff’s Office does not assist federal agencies in civil immigration enforcement. No one in our county who may need law enforcement help should fear reaching out to us, regardless of their immigration status.
In our region, immigration officials seem to understand and comply with our circumstances; however, they will continue to do their jobs. Local law enforcement does not have any authority to interfere with, or “overrule” federal law enforcement actions. We will not “choose sides” on this issue. We will act within the rule of law.
Professional law enforcement runs on public trust. We remain committed to respecting and protecting the constitutional rights of everyone in our county to the best of our ability, within the scope of our authority. Public trust requires professionalism, transparency, and accountability. We are committed to earning and maintaining your trust. Our deputies do amazing work in a complex environment. Tensions related to immigration enforcement increase the risk to public safety and the safety of law enforcement officers who are doing their best to navigate in the current environment.
All of us, including our local, state, and national public officials, should choose words and actions wisely to avoid escalating tensions and potential violence.
Inflammatory rhetoric is not helpful. Leadership based on civility and lawful process should be our focus.
Rick Felici
Island County Sheriff
