In an ongoing effort to foster transparency within law enforcement, El Paso County Sheriff Joseph Roybal has released an updated list of individuals who transitioned to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). According to the El Paso County Sheriff's Office, the individuals had been held at the El Paso County Jail and are now under ICE's authority following various criminal charges.
Sheriff Roybal stated, "As part of our continued commitment to transparency, I am once again releasing a list of individuals and their associated criminal charges related to the safe and secure transfer of custody to our federal partners at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement," as per the El Paso County Sheriff's Office. He hopes to demonstrate the working relationship between local law enforcement and federal agencies by providing this information. Acknowledging recent legislation, Roybal adds that public safety must always remain the foremost priority.
The posted list includes names, ages, arrest dates, and criminal charges, symbolizing the El Paso County Sheriff's Office's adherence to Colorado law. For instance, records show that individuals like Jose Gutierrez-Duran, a 38-year-old man charged with second-degree assault, and Paul Cesar Ramirez, facing DUI among other charges, were both recently transferred to ICE custody. The public can request booking photos from the respective arresting agency.
In light of Senate Bill 25-276, "Protect Civil Rights Immigration Status," which Governor Polis signed on May 23, Sheriff Roybal issued a directive to steadily adjust to more restrictive cooperation measures with ICE. In spite of these changes, the sheriff's office continues to work visibly and in line with the statute.
According to the El Paso County Sheriff's Office, nine individuals were released from the El Paso County Jail before ICE could assume custody, mandated by state law to prevent detainment on the sole basis of immigration status. The sheriff's office maintains a policy to provide timely information about such transfers and the legal process surrounding them.
