Multi-Agency Involvement Allegations
The scope of the information sharing may extend beyond the two disciplined deputies. Sheriff Rowell alleged that drug task force members from other law enforcement agencies, including the Colorado State Patrol, also participated in sharing information with immigration agents through the Signal chat platform. However, the Colorado State Patrol has denied these claims.
Attorney General Weiser has indicated that his office is investigating whether additional officers involved in the chat group violated state law, suggesting that further legal action may be forthcoming.
Political Ramifications and Future Enforcement
The case has taken on additional political significance as Attorney General Weiser is currently running for governor. Sheriff Rowell has called on the Democrat to drop the lawsuit against Zwinck, framing it as an example of selective law enforcement for political gain.
The incident also highlights the challenging position of law enforcement officers who must navigate between conflicting state and federal legal requirements. Under the Trump administration’s expanded immigration enforcement policies, hundreds of state and local law enforcement agencies have been enlisted to help identify and detain immigrants in the U.S. illegally for potential deportation.
Trump has also relaxed longtime restrictions on immigration enforcement near sensitive locations such as schools, churches, and hospitals, further expanding the scope of potential federal-local cooperation.
The case now moves forward with Zwinck facing ongoing legal proceedings while both deputies adjust to their removal from drug task force operations. The outcome may set important precedents for how similar conflicts between state sanctuary policies and federal immigration enforcement are resolved in Colorado and potentially other states with similar legislative frameworks.
🛑 It should be noted that the assertions in Attorney General Weiser’s lawsuit are merely allegations and have not been proven in a court of law.
