Key Takeaways:
- Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird finds Sheriff Dan Marx in violation of state law over ICE detainer stance.
- Marx must issue a public retraction after stating he wouldn’t honor ICE requests without court approval.
- Iowa law prohibits discouraging cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
- Marx has a history of complying with ICE detainers.
- Non-compliance could lead to enforcement action.
Iowa Sheriff Required to Retract Statement on ICE Cooperation
Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird has determined that Sheriff Dan Marx of Winneshiek County violated state law by stating he wouldn’t comply with ICE detainer requests lacking court approval. This conclusion follows an investigation sparked by Governor Kim Reynolds’ complaint regarding Marx’s Facebook post.
Investigation Finds Violation of Iowa Law
AG Bird’s investigation revealed that Marx’s post contravened Iowa Code Chapter 27A, which mandates cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Bird directed Marx to issue a public statement retracting his earlier remarks, emphasizing compliance with both state and federal laws.
Sheriff’s Compliance Record
Despite his controversial post, Marx’s office has consistently honored all 21 ICE detainers received since 2018. His required statement highlights this compliance and asserts commitment to continuing cooperation with ICE.
The Bigger Picture: Immigration Enforcement Debate
This incident underscores the ongoing national debate over immigration enforcement and local law enforcement’s role. While some argue for stricter immigration control, others oppose honoring detainers without judicial oversight, citing constitutional concerns.
Conclusion
AG Bird’s directive underscores the importance of state-law compliance with federal immigration policies. Marx’s case serves as a reminder of the legal and political complexities surrounding immigration enforcement at the local level. As tensions persist, such conflicts may continue to arise, testing the balance between state and federal authorities.