The federal government tried to gaslight the public into believing we had no authority here. Now we know this isn’t true.

A federal judge just made something crystal clear: no federal agency, no private prison company, and no political pressure can strip San Diego County of its legal authority to protect the health and safety of people detained within our region. 

Judge: ICE in San Diego Doesn’t Exist Outside the Law

When the rights and well-being of people in our community are on the line, we have an obligation to do something. 

Last week, the court took our side. Federal Judge James Simmons Jr. ruled San Diego County has the right — and duty — to inspect the health conditions inside the Otay Mesa detention center, where individuals arrested by ICE are often detained. 

He indicated he will grant a preliminary injunction allowing San Diego County to conduct a full public health inspection of the Otay Mesa Detention Facility. A formal ruling is expected on May 27. 

In the courtroom, he affirmed our police authority to inspect the facility and recognized that real, irreparable harm is occurring every day these inspections are blocked. 

How did we get here? This fight started in February when our office received alarming complaints about conditions inside the Otay Mesa facility. We requested an inspection. Federal officials initially said yes — then reversed course and turned us away at the gate. They even blocked me personally from entering when I showed up to do my job.

Now what? Our County Counsel will now work with federal attorneys to determine the full scope of the inspection — including access to detainees, medical records, and facility policies. We will not rest until every person inside that facility receives the dignity and safety they deserve.

There are moments when we San Diegans have to stand up and speak out against wrongdoing — even if it means calling out the most powerful institutions around.

This fight is proof that holding those in power accountable, at every level, is within our power here in San Diego.