Mesa County Deputy Alexander Zwink is facing a lawsuit from Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser for sharing information about an illegal alien with federal authorities, despite adhering to federal requirements. The Justice Department has already filed a lawsuit against the state law Weiser was enforcing, which is considered unconstitutional. The article emphasizes the conflict between state sanctuary policies and federal immigration laws, advocating for the reinstatement of the deputies and their supervisors.
Both the deputies and their supervisors have been disciplined for their involvement in the task force, with the Mesa County Sheriff, Todd Rowell, removing them from the task force. The article points out that the state law signed by Governor Jared Polls, which prohibits sharing immigration information with federal authorities, is a violation of federal law. This law is seen as reckless, as it allows dangerous criminals to remain in the state.
Examples of the consequences of Colorado’s sanctuary policies are highlighted, such as Luis Gusman-Rincon, a gang member who committed a violent crime but was not deported due to the state’s sanctuary laws. The article also mentions the impact on residents in Colorado Springs and Aurora, where the policies have led to an increase in illegal gang members terrorizing communities.
The article argues that Weiser’s actions are a clear violation of the supremacy clause, as the Constitution and federal laws are the supreme law of the land. The Justice Department is expected to succeed in its lawsuit against the state, which is portrayed as being led by thoughtless politicians. The deputies and their colleagues should be recognized as professionals who are essential to public safety rather than being disciplined for complying with federal law.