A major crackdown on illegal immigration is underway with President Donald Trump saying he's prepared to deport millions of people in the country illegally.

Some county leaders, like Yakima County Commissioner Amanda McKinney, say while they're in favor of the action, they're barred from helping federal immigration officials simply because Washington is a Sanctuary state.

YAKIMA COUNTY IS FOLLOWING ALL LAWS

McKinney released a memo to local media organizations saying, "There has been no Board of Yakima County Commissioners declaration of Yakima County as a sanctuary county by resolution or ordinance. Federal and state laws are clear that they do not allow for cooperation with ICE on immigration matters. Yakima County follows all laws."

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YAKIMA COUNTY IS ALSO UNDER A FEDERAL COURT ORDER NOT TO HELP

She says Yakima County is also under a federal court case "settlement stipulation that does not allow Yakima County to cooperate with ICE regarding immigration holds/detainers...The stipulation resulted from federal litigation."

That means Yakima Police and the Yakima County Sheriff's Office may know the identity and location of illegal citizens but have no legal authority to give that information to federal authorities.

Local authorities also can't impede the work of immigration officials either.

Amanda McKinney
Amanda McKinney Yakima County
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MCKINNEY SAYS SHE'S IN FAVOR OF THE ACTION BY FEDS

McKinney continues, "as Commissioner, I am committed to ensuring that Yakima County does not exceed our legal limitations nor interfere or impede with ICE's enforcement of federal law, which is rightly enforced to protect the citizens of the United States of America and ensure the sovereignty of our nation."

While it remains uncertain whether federal immigration actions will unfold in Yakima under Trump’s administration, heightened activity is anticipated across the United States, including in Washington State.

Don't miss our conversation on 1280 NewsTalk KIT-AM and 101.3 FM with McKinney on Friday, January 24th, at 7:10 a.m.

KIT Interview with Amanda McKinney Part 1

KIT Interview with Amanda McKinney Part 2

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