The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom for signing the “No Secret Police Act,” a new law that restricts law enforcement officers from concealing their identities during operations. DHS officials argue that this legislation puts federal officers at risk, especially amid what they describe as a sharp rise in assaults and targeted harassment.
According to DHS, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers have experienced a more than 1,000% increase in assaults, including incidents where vehicles were used as weapons and coordinated online doxing campaigns targeting both officers and their families. The department maintains that ICE personnel clearly identify themselves with marked vests and vehicles but sometimes wear masks to protect against retaliation by organized criminal groups.
Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated, “Governor Gavin Newsom is fanning the flames of division, hatred and dehumanization of our law enforcement. At a time that ICE law enforcement faces a 1,000% increase in assaults and their family members are being doxxed and targeted, the sitting Governor of California signs unconstitutional legislation that strips law enforcement of protections in a disgusting, diabolical fundraising and PR stunt.” She added, “He signed this piece of legislation the same day his team made a menacing threat against Secretary Kristi Noem online. The violent rhetoric and demonization must stop. To be crystal clear: we will not abide by Newsom’s unconstitutional ban.”
Despite opposition from state leadership, DHS says ICE continues its efforts to remove individuals convicted of serious crimes from California communities. Recent arrests include individuals identified as members or affiliates of gangs such as MS-13, Tren de Aragua, Sureños-13, and others who have been convicted or are wanted for offenses ranging from homicide to sexual abuse.
The debate over the new law highlights ongoing tensions between federal immigration authorities and California’s sanctuary policies.
