Sheriff Issues Warning To Trump’s ICE
A California sheriff is calling on federal immigration officials to be transparent with local law enforcement as security preparations intensify around Levi’s Stadium ahead of Super Bowl LX.
Santa Clara County Sheriff Robert Jonsen said Thursday that Immigration and Customs Enforcement should clearly communicate with county officials if any federal immigration activity is planned in the area during Super Bowl week. The request comes as millions of fans are expected to travel through the region for one of the largest sporting events of the year.
Jonsen emphasized that while cooperation and communication are important, his department will not participate in federal immigration enforcement.
“I’m asking our federal partners to be open with local officials if they plan to operate in our community,” Jonsen said. “That coordination helps ensure public safety. At the same time, our policies remain unchanged—we will not assist or support ICE enforcement actions.”
The sheriff also addressed concerns from fans who may notice a significant law enforcement presence around the stadium and nearby venues. He said visible officers are there strictly to maintain safety and order during the event.
“There is a strong likelihood that people will see officers in uniform,” Jonsen said. “If they are clearly identifiable and not concealing who they are, they are there for public protection.”
He added that individuals attempting to hide their identity or operate without coordination would raise concerns, noting that proper communication between agencies is critical during major national events.
Messaging from federal officials has been mixed. A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security said the agency does not disclose operational plans in advance, but stressed that Super Bowl security will involve coordination across multiple government agencies and will comply with constitutional protections.
“Individuals who are lawfully present in the United States and not violating the law have nothing to fear,” the spokesperson said.
Previous comments from DHS adviser Corey Lewandowski had suggested that ICE would be present at the game as part of a broader enforcement effort under President Donald Trump. However, the White House later clarified that there was no confirmed plan for ICE operations tied specifically to the Super Bowl.
President Trump has since indicated he does not plan to attend the game, citing travel distance.
Super Bowl LX is scheduled for February 8 and will feature the Seattle Seahawks facing the New England Patriots in a highly anticipated rematch. The Patriots defeated Seattle in the 2015 Super Bowl, one of the most memorable championship games in NFL history.
