Denver Mayor Mike Johnston announced that the city is prepared to collaborate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on cases involving violent criminals, while adhering to Colorado’s state laws. In an interview with FOX31 Denver, Johnston explained that Denver would notify ICE of a pending release if the federal agency requests such information.
“The whole state is bound by our state law in this, which is … we don’t honor ICE detainers,” Johnston clarified. “If ICE calls and says, ‘Will you hold someone for three more days?’ That doesn’t happen in Douglas County, Yuma, or Denver. We’re not having our local police doing federal law enforcement, that’s not our job.” However, Johnston confirmed the city would inform ICE about the release of individuals in custody when requested.
Johnston reiterated that Denver remains committed to protecting schools, hospitals, and churches from federal immigration enforcement actions. Despite the evolving political landscape under President Donald Trump, Johnston stated that Denver’s core values will not change. “We want to be both a welcoming city and a city that serves all of our residents,” he said. “We’re not going to be bullied or blackmailed into changing our policies, but we think our policies serve everyone well right now.”
While Denver does not inquire about immigration status during routine stops, Johnston acknowledged that ICE could coordinate with local authorities to take custody of certain individuals directly upon release from city jails.
Reports indicate no significant ICE raids in Denver so far in 2025, according to FOX31. Johnston has previously emphasized the city’s commitment to sanctuary policies and has advocated against allowing ICE to enter Denver for deportation efforts targeting illegal migrants.