San Francisco Police Commission votes unanimously to revise immigration enforcement laws

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- San Francisco's Police Commission made it clear Wednesday night -- they back the city's controversial sanctuary city laws.

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But despite the show of support, some immigration rights advocates aren't happy.

"We are not in the business of immigration enforcement," said San Francisco Police Chief Bill Scott.

That's the message he made clear to the police commission which voted to revise its immigration policy to match the sanctuary city law supervisors amended last year, which does not allow police to ask about an individual's immigration status.

"The police and community stands behind sanctuary the city ordinance," said Bill Ong Hing of the commission.

One policy revision reads: Members shall not cooperate with or assist ICE/CBP in any investigation, detention, or arrest where the purpose is enforcing federal immigration laws.

Revisions came after the tragic case of Kate Steinle, who died after being struck by a bullet fired by an undocumented Mexican citizen who had illegally re-entered the US.

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Pedro Figueroa could be paid a $190,000 settlement by the city after San Francisco police notified federal authorities when he tried to recover his stolen car at a police station in 2015. He was nearly deported.

"There are certain situations where SFPD can get involved with ICE," said Saira Hussain of the Asian Law Caucus. "We need more clarification when that takes place."

"We do work with federal agents on criminal activity, gangs -- but if that evolves into immigration check, we stop it right there," Scott added.

The commission agreed to form a working group to make changes to the policy if needed.

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