California sheriff refuses to support ICE operations around Super Bowl LX

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US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is set to be on hand at Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara, California, next month, but the county sheriff made it clear he doesn’t want the agency’s back.

Santa Clara County Sheriff Bob Jonsen said Thursday that while authorities are there for the residents and tourists coming into town for the game between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots, the department will not be working to support ICE agents in any immigration enforcement operations.

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Protesters protest at the Federal Building in response to another fatal shooting by ICE and immigration agents in Minnesota, Sunday, Jan. 25, 2026, in Los Angeles. (Ronaldo Bolanos/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

“So I encourage our federal partners, if there’s anything you’re planning to do in our community, please be transparent and reach out to your local officials so we can work as best we can,” Jonsen said at a news conference.

“It was mentioned that we’re not going to change our policies or protocols. We’re not going to work or support ICE Immigration Enforcement, but I want you, again, remember if you see us out there, we’re there to help you and we’re going to be there. Don’t hesitate to contact anyone wearing a uniform as these events unfold if they’re walking around trying to stay safe and make sure you’re safe.”

In the same breath, Jonsen said local law enforcement will be ready to keep residents safe.

“We’re going to be here for you, side by side. So when you get off those trains, you get off those buses, yes, chances are you’re going to see someone in uniform. But if they’re not masked, if they’re wearing tan and green or blue and black, believe me, they’re there for your protection. They’re there for your protection.

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Footballs with the Super Bowl LX logo are pictured at the Wilson Sporting Goods plant in Ada, Ohio, Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)

“If they’re masked and they’re trying to hide their identity, then somebody hasn’t communicated with us because we’ve made it very clear to our officers that our workforce is going to be open and transparent and engaged with this community for the next few weeks, and that’s our goal every single day. We’ve spent decades building this community, and many have tried this last year, as I’ve tried with you this last year. information that we can about what we know is going to happen and when it will will happen and if it will happen, but without that communication we can’t.”

Pakinomist Digital reached out to ICE for comment.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin Yoho told TMZ earlier this week that there will be agents conducting enforcement operations.

“DHS is committed to working with our local and federal partners to ensure the Super Bowl is safe for all involved, as we do with any major sporting event, including the World Cup,” she said. “Our mission remains unchanged.”

DHS adviser Corey Lewandowski said back in October that enforcement is a “directive of the president” and will not be paused for the Super Bowl.

“There’s nowhere you can provide a safe haven for people who are in this country illegally,” Lewandowski said on “The Benny Show” podcast. “Not the Super Bowl and nowhere else. We will find and deport you. It’s a very real situation.”