Federal Lawmakers Question Colorado Sanctuary Policies In New Investigation

By Marissa Ventrelli | Colorado Politics

A congressional panel is reviewing Denver and Boulder’s policies, alleging that these cities, along with other “sanctuary” jurisdictions, are declining to cooperate with federal immigration authorities, the body announced Wednesday.

Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, who chairs the U.S. House Judiciary Committee, issued letters to the district attorneys, sheriffs and police chiefs of Denver and Boulder, accusing the local officials of prioritizing “illegal and criminal aliens over American citizens,” undermining public safety and hindering “the efficient enforcement of federal law.”

Rep. Tom McClintock, R-California, chairman of the Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security and Environment, also signed the letters. Rep. Gabe Evans, the Republican representative for Colorado’s 8th Congressional District, also signed the letters to Denver officials.

Denver and Boulder are among the “sanctuary cities” across the country with policies limiting or prohibiting local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal immigration agents. Colorado’s laws also expressly prohibit cooperation with federal authorities on immigration matters, with exemptions for criminal investigations.

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