Summit County Authorities Clarify Role in ICE Operations

Local law enforcement says they do not enforce federal immigration laws, but work to ensure public safety during ICE actions.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Members of the Summit County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council discussed community concerns about U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in the area. Local authorities, including the Park City Police Department and Summit County Sheriff's Office, explained their limited role in these federal enforcement actions, emphasizing that they focus on state and local laws, not federal immigration statutes. The officials described how they communicate with ICE to maintain public safety and address resident concerns during ICE operations.

Why it matters

Immigration enforcement actions can create anxiety in communities, and local authorities want to reassure residents that they are focused on public safety, not federal immigration laws. The discussion highlights the complex relationship between local and federal law enforcement, as well as the need for clear communication to address community fears.

The details

Park City Police Captain Darwin Little stated that city police are not federal officers and do not enforce immigration law. He said the department asks ICE to notify local agencies if operations occur within city limits, to help police and dispatch respond appropriately. Summit County Sheriff Kacey Bates explained that the jail uses fingerprints to identify people during booking, which can lead to contact with ICE in some cases. Bates said ICE has also contacted local dispatch in advance when planning targeted operations in the area.

  • On Tuesday, the Summit County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council discussed community concerns about immigration enforcement.

The players

Darwin Little

A captain with the Park City Police Department.

Kacey Bates

The Summit County sheriff.

Skyler Talbot

A sergeant who handles public relations for the Summit County Sheriff's Office and the Summit County Attorney's Office.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal agency responsible for immigration enforcement operations.

Summit County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council

A local government body that discussed community concerns about immigration enforcement.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.