Compton Mayor Sharif on weekend vandalism
Compton Mayor Emma Sharif put out the following statement following a tense weekend in which law enforcement officers reportedly in tactical gear fired tear gas and other nonlethal weapons to disperse protesters, including some who started fires and committed vandalism on a doughnut shop, a taqueria, a gas station and other locally owned businesses.
“The City of Compton’s top priority is the safety, dignity, and well-being of everyone in our community. We understand that recent developments have caused fear, frustration, and uncertainty, but we urge everyone to remain peaceful. Violence and the destruction of property are not the solution,” said Sharif.
“I want to thank the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department for its continued partnership with the City of Compton. We have been assured that LASD is not coordinating with ICE, and we appreciate their ongoing efforts to keep our city informed and focused on the safety of our residents.
At this time, the City is working closely with our community partners to provide resources and support to those in need. It is especially important for individuals and families to know their rights when it comes to immigration enforcement. We stand for the rights and dignity of every resident, regardless of background or immigration status.”
Paramount officials clarify DHS facility
The Paramount City Council addressed community concerns this week regarding the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) having a facility within the city limits of Paramount.
Some have called for the City to cancel a contract the City is alleged to have with either DHS or Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). In calling for the cancellation, some are citing the City of Glendale as an example of a city that has cancelled such contracts.
“We are issuing this statement to clarify with all interested parties what the facts are regarding the DHS facility in Paramount. We want to explain the truth clearly,” the Council explained in a written release.
- The City of Paramount does NOT have any contract with DHS or ICE. So, there is no contract to cancel.
- DHS made a leased agreement with the private person or private company who owns the property in Paramount. The City was never part of that deal and did not help choose the location.
- According to an LA Times report, Glendale PD had a contract to let DHS use their city jail to house ICE detainees. Paramount doesn’t have a jail and has never made any deal like that.
- The City of Paramount does not help with immigration enforcement. We are not allowed by State law to do that, and we don’t work with DHS or ICE on those matters.
- The Paramount City Council has never suggested we support immigration enforcement work.
“We understand this is a deeply sensitive issue for many. The City remains committed to transparency and the safety and well-being of all residents – regardless of immigration status.
We encourage residents to reach out to City Hall directly for questions or information about City services and partnerships. We can be reached at (562) 220-2027.”
Whittier Officials confirm Feds in city
The City of Whittier Administration this week confirmed that federal immigration authorities were present in the Whittier Public Library parking lot and in front of Whittier City Hall yesterday morning. They are no longer present at the Civic Center.
“We have also received reports of activity in other parts of the city. Federal agents did not inform the City of their arrival, and we did not receive any advance alerts regarding their activity. We are not housing any ICE detainees, and we are not working with any federal immigration agencies,” the City said in a press release.
“As previously shared, the City of Whittier and the Whittier Police Department do not coordinate with ICE or participate in civil immigration enforcement. Our officers do not ask about immigration status when responding to calls for service. We understand how stressful and upsetting this is for many in our community. We urge residents to remain calm, avoid confrontation, and prioritize personal safety. We remain committed to transparency and will continue to share updates as we receive new information.”
Residents with questions can call the Administration (562) 567-9301.
