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Rawlins Today
By the People, for the People
Sheriff Denies ICE Presence in Rawlins
Carbon County Sheriff says federal agents were transporting an individual with an ICE detainer, not conducting operations
Published on Feb. 23, 2026
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The Carbon County Sheriff's Office has denied reports that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were operating in the city of Rawlins, Wyoming. Sheriff Alex Bakken stated that an ICE vehicle spotted by a resident was simply transporting an individual with an active ICE detainer, and that the sheriff's office participates in a program that allows them to hold such individuals until federal agents can take custody.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions and confusion around immigration enforcement, with local law enforcement agencies playing a role in cooperating with federal authorities. The sheriff's clarification aims to reassure the community that ICE is not conducting widespread operations in the area.
The details
On Friday, a Rawlins resident posted a photo on social media of an ICE vehicle in the city, warning others to 'be careful.' However, Sheriff Bakken stated that the vehicle was simply transporting an individual who had an active ICE detainer, meaning federal authorities had requested the person be held. The sheriff's office participates in the 287(g) program, which allows them to hold such individuals in the county jail until ICE can take custody.
- On Friday morning, a Rawlins resident posted a photo of an ICE vehicle on social media.
- Later on Friday, Sheriff Bakken announced on social media that ICE was not conducting operations in Carbon County.
The players
Sheriff Alex Bakken
The Carbon County Sheriff who clarified that ICE was not operating in Rawlins, and that the agency's vehicle was only transporting an individual with an active detainer.
Rawlins resident
A county resident who posted a photo of an ICE vehicle on social media, warning others to 'be careful.'
What they’re saying
“They are here in Rawlins, everyone please be careful.”
— Rawlins resident (Social media post)
“The Carbon County Sheriff's Office has verified with ICE that there are no active operations in the county. Federal agents have agreed to notify my department and local municipalities before any activity.”
— Sheriff Alex Bakken, Carbon County Sheriff (Social media post)
The takeaway
This incident highlights the ongoing tensions and confusion around immigration enforcement, with local law enforcement agencies playing a role in cooperating with federal authorities. The sheriff's clarification aims to reassure the community that ICE is not conducting widespread operations in the area, while also acknowledging the agency's ability to detain individuals with active warrants.
