DHS releases list of 'sanctuary' cities in Idaho and Washington

Washington, DC (KLEW) — UPDATE: DHS has removed the list from its website after National Sheriffs’ Association President Kieran Donahue, who is also the sheriff of Idaho’s Canyon County, said in a statement Saturday that DHS compiled and published the list in a way lacking transparency and accountability. He urged DHS and members of the Trump administration to denounce and remove the list to demonstrate accountability.

Original Story:

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released a list of cities and counties across the country that it defines as "Sanctuary" Cities for undocumented immigrants.

The DHS says each jurisdiction listed will receive formal notification of its non-compliance with Federal statutes. They suggest that these jurisdictions should "review and revise their policies to align with Federal immigration laws and renew their obligation to protect American citizens, not dangerous illegal aliens."

According to the release, these cities in Idaho and Washington obstruct the enforcement of Federal immigration laws.

Idaho: Boise.

Washington Cities: Everett, Olympia, Tacoma, Seattle, Yakima.

Wsahington Counties: Asotin County, Benton County, Chelan County, Clallam County, Clark County, Columbia County, Cowlitz County, Ferry County, Franklin County, Garfield County, Grant County, Grays Harbor County, Island County, Jefferson County, King County, Kitsap County, Kittitas County, Lewis County, Lincoln County, Mason County, Okanogan County, Pacific County, Pend Oreille County, Pierce County, San Juan County, Skagit County, Skamania County, Snohomish County, Spokane County, Stevens County, Thurston County, Wahkiakum County, Walla Walla County, Whatcom County, Whitman County.

KLEW News reached out to Spokane County Sheriff John Knowles, he confirmed that the sheriff's department was not notified by DHS that they would be put on the list. Knowles says Spokane deputies comply with federal law enforcement to the extent allowed by the state. He suspects this may have something to do with Washington law restricting jail employees from providing information to immigration officials.

For a full list of cities and counties, click here.