As reported by Central Oregon Daily, law enforcement agencies in Central Oregon have clarified their approach to immigration enforcement amidst increased federal efforts under the Trump administration. At the same time, Oregon has joined a coalition of states challenging the administration’s attempts to roll back constitutional protections tied to birthright citizenship.
Sheriff Kent Van Der Kamp of the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, who has faced scrutiny regarding his earlier law enforcement career, emphasized that the agency adheres strictly to Oregon state law, which prohibits local authorities from enforcing federal immigration policies. Under Oregon Revised Statute 181A.823, the Sheriff’s Office does not inquire about an individual’s immigration or citizenship status and does not share such information with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The Sheriff also stated that the Deschutes County Jail does not accept or house individuals solely on federal immigration violations. He reaffirmed the department’s mission to enhance public safety, reduce the impact of crime, and improve the quality of life for all residents and visitors, while focusing on upholding constitutional rights and fostering trust within the community.
Bend Mayor Melanie Kebler reiterated that local resources would not be used to enforce federal immigration laws, aligning with Oregon’s legal framework. She expressed concern about recent moves by the Trump administration, arguing that they disrupt long-standing norms and laws separating federal and local responsibilities. Kebler highlighted the value of Bend’s immigrant community, emphasizing their contributions to the city’s culture and economy, and stated that the rights of all community members should be respected.
Sheriff John Gautney of Crook County shared similar sentiments, noting that his office does not have the authority to enforce federal immigration laws and confirming there would be no changes in current practices.
In parallel with these clarifications, Oregon has joined other Democratic-led states in suing the Trump administration over its executive order seeking to end birthright citizenship. Birthright citizenship, guaranteed under the Fourteenth Amendment, grants automatic citizenship to individuals born in the United States. Attorney General Dan Rayfield, along with attorneys general from Washington, Arizona, and Illinois, filed a lawsuit claiming that the executive order violates constitutional protections. Rayfield argued that the administration’s actions represent a clear violation of the Fourteenth Amendment and undermine decades of established legal precedent.
The lawsuit highlights the impact of the executive order, noting that an estimated 255,000 children were born to undocumented mothers in the U.S. in 2022 alone, with 12,000 babies each month potentially losing their citizenship. In Oregon, approximately 2,500 children were born to mothers lacking legal status that same year. Without citizenship, these children could be left stateless, meaning they would not belong to any country and could face detention or deportation. The lawsuit also warns of economic consequences, including financial losses for states where these individuals reside.
The lawsuit, filed in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington, seeks immediate injunctive relief to prevent the executive order from taking effect. Legal experts have pointed out that such an order represents an unprecedented attempt to alter constitutional principles without a formal amendment, and they predict the issue may ultimately be decided by the U.S. Supreme Court.
While debates surrounding immigration and citizenship continue, Central Oregon leaders remain committed to following state law and protecting the constitutional rights of all individuals. Local officials in Bend and beyond have reaffirmed their dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive community for residents of all backgrounds.
At the conclusion of recent discussions about immigration enforcement and local policies, Sheriff Kent Vander Kamp has faced scrutiny regarding his earlier law enforcement career. Records from nearly 30 years ago, accidentally released during a legal dispute, detail misconduct allegations from his time as a volunteer reserve officer in La Mesa, California. These records, which Vander Kamp sought to keep confidential, have become a point of contention in the political landscape, adding another layer of complexity to his role as Sheriff.
