Kentucky leaders deny not upholding federal immigration laws

FRANKFORT, Ky. (FOX 56) — Hundreds of cities and counties across the nation are considered to be sanctuary jurisdictions.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, that means they are not in compliance with immigration laws.

Scott County is one of five jurisdictions in Kentucky, along with Franklin, Campbell, Jefferson counties and Louisville.

Scott County leaders said it being on the list is false information.

“The fiscal court has never passed any resolution, any regulation, or ordinance that would not support the federal government’s work,” Judge Executive Joe Pat Covington said.

Covington said the county is compliant and cooperative with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement [ICE]. When he was made aware that his county is on the list, Covington said he spoke to DHS officials in Louisville, who also confirmed it is a mistake.

“I can confirm, after conversations with DHS officials in Louisville today, that information is incorrect, and DHS officials are working to correct that status with their colleagues in Washington, D.C.,” Covington said.

He added, It’s important to share accurate information and facts that are related to the Scott County community.

“Regards to the ICE detainers, we honor the ICE detainers. If their officers show up at our facility and they want to interview an individual, we give them access to those individuals; we do nothing to end up on this list,” Derran Broyles, Scott County Jailer, said.

“The list below was created to identify sanctuary jurisdictions, which are determined by factors like compliance with federal law enforcement, information restrictions, and legal protections for illegal aliens.

Each jurisdiction listed will receive formal notification of its non-compliance with Federal statutes. DHS demands that these jurisdictions immediately review and revise their policies to align with Federal immigration laws and renew their obligation to protect American citizens, not dangerous illegal aliens.”
Department of Homeland Security said in a press release

“What we’re currently doing, if they are then released [inmates] on local charges but still have ICE holders, is jailer Broyles has worked with Oldham County, with whom we have a contract, and they’re sent there,” Cam Culbertson, Scott County attorney, said.

Prior to this information being released, Covington said the county had never been notified that it could potentially be violating federal immigration policies.

“We support the rule of law, period, and it’s important that our community knows where we stand and that we stand together,” Covington added.