Sheriff Addresses Hispanic Community Concerns

Speaking at a Hispanic in Politics event Wednesday morning, Clark County Sheriff Kevin McMahill addressed growing community concerns about immigration enforcement.

The forum provided a chance for direct dialogue between law enforcement and community members about recent changes in how the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (Metro) handles immigration matters.

New Changes in Immigration Enforcement

Here’s what’s happening:

Metro has expanded its cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following the passage of the Lakan Riley Act.

Now, when someone who’s in the country illegally gets arrested for crimes like burglary, theft, or attacking a police officer, Metro notifies ICE. This is a bigger deal than you might think – it’s part of a broader push to strengthen immigration enforcement across the country.

Bipartisan Support Surprises Many

What’s really interesting is that this isn’t just Republicans pushing for these changes. Even Nevada’s Democratic representatives in Congress voted for this bill.

As Sheriff McMahill put it plainly at the meeting:

“I know that doesn’t make certain people happy, but I don’t make law folks. If you’re not happy with the fact that those laws were passed, you’ve got a bone to pick, but it’s not with me.”

Early Results Show Impact

The results so far? At the Hispanic in Politics event, McMahill revealed that since January 31st, ICE has picked up just four people from Metro’s jails under this new policy.

But here’s where it gets more significant – ICE has independently arrested over 300 people in community operations, including some serious criminals. They’ve caught a Venezuelan gang member and several people connected to MS-13, one of the most dangerous gangs in America.

Opposition and Protests

Critics argue this approach creates fear in immigrant communities and might make people less likely to report crimes. Some have even taken to the streets in protest. Earlier this week, demonstrators against Trump’s immigration policies clashed with police, throwing frozen water bottles and rocks at officers.

Sheriff McMahill described it as “a violent, violent few hours.”

Las Vegas, Nevada.

Last night,a peaceful protest by illegal immigrants against deportation turned into a violent riot.

The police made numerous arrests. Similar events are taking place in the states of Arizona,California and Texas. pic.twitter.com/ijp9JlW6Fg

— Tibo91 (@Tibortibor15) February 5, 2025

Protests contiued on Thursday afternoon as lanes of the Las Vegas Strip were shut down due to demonstrations.

Heads up, Metro closing lanes as immigration protesters move south on Las Vegas Blvd @KTNV pic.twitter.com/5hilWZezbq

— Joe Moeller (@joemoeller44) February 5, 2025

Why This Matters to Conservatives

For conservatives who’ve long pushed for stronger immigration enforcement, these changes represent a step in the right direction. The new policy shows how local law enforcement can work with federal authorities while staying within their legal boundaries.

Metro isn’t conducting ICE raids themselves, but they’re helping federal authorities identify potentially dangerous individuals who are in the country illegally.

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead, Sheriff McMahill expects more ICE operations in the area. While Metro isn’t planning to return to their previous 287(g) agreement- which gave local officers immigration enforcement powers – they’re maintaining a working relationship with ICE focused on public safety.

During the same Hispanic in Politics event, school police officials outlined their approach. Lt. Steve Hewitt emphasized that school police officers won’t stop or question people based solely on immigration status.

These policies matter because they show how communities can balance strong immigration enforcement with practical local policing. It’s about following the law while keeping our communities safe – something that should matter to everyone, regardless of political beliefs.