Local law enforcement leaders respond to President Trump's threats to pull ICE and border patrol agents out of California
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- President Trump clearly fed up and frustrated by the management of ICE agents in the state lashed out Thursday.
Across the country, Fresno Police Chief Jerry Dyer heard his message loud and clear.
"I'm very surprised that he would make that statement publicly. I'm also very surprised that there would be any consideration of pulling ICE out of California because they serve a very, very vital role- on our borders especially," said Dyer.
Dyer believes if the president followed through on his threat, it would force local law enforcement officers to patrol the borders in addition to policing the streets.
Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims says agents are important since about 90 inmates currently in the Fresno County Jail are being held in ICE detainers.
"They are in custody for things like child molest, pornography, homicide, homicide, homicide, rape, burglary," said Mims.
Mims says trumps off the cuff remarks would have a very concerning impact in the Central Valley.
"Only the counties that don't want ICE. He can accommodate that. But my message is, we need ICE in Fresno County because we have very serious inmates in custody that have committed some horrendous crimes that we need ICE to deal with," said Fresno County Sheriff Margaret Mims.
"These are absolute animals. These aren't, these aren't human beings these are animals," said President Trump.
The president threatened to leave California alone to fight dangerous gangs.
Hours later, Governor Brown issues his response saying in part--
"We protect all of our people from criminals and gangs. We do our job, Mr. President, you do yours," said Brown.
