Colorado Congressman Aims to Curb Sanctuary Policies Amidst Venezuelan Gang Concerns

Colorado law enforcement might soon find it easier to team up with federal authorities on immigration matters, especially when dealing with gangs and drug operations. Rep. Gabe Evans, a Republican from Colorado, has introduced the "Unhandcuffing Police to Locate and Interdict Foreign Transgressors (UPLIFT) Act" in Congress. This bill aims to encourage officials in Colorado and across the country to share information with federal agencies about illegal immigrants suspected of committing crimes, even if state laws currently restrict them.

Evans emphasized the national implications of state laws in an interview with Fox News Digital. He noted that if Colorado provides information to a criminal justice database used by federal law enforcement, local cops in Colorado who shared that data could face legal repercussions. "And so the feds don't want to get their state and local partners in trouble," he said.

Evans highlighted that his district, located in suburban Denver, has been in the news regarding border and illegal immigration issues, despite its distance from the border. In January, the DEA made about 50 arrests of illegal immigrants, many linked to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, which the Trump administration has classified as a foreign terrorist organization, Fox News Digital reported.

"I mean, look at the Tren de Aragua nightclub takedown that happened in my district, by the way," he said, underscoring the local impact of these broader issues.

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Evans pointed out that state and local law enforcement were aware of these individuals but felt restricted in their ability to act, awaiting federal intervention. He stressed that these challenges directly affect community safety. It's kind of wild how much red tape can tie up common sense, right?

Addressing concerns about the bill potentially infringing on state's rights, Evans argued that it aligns with the Supremacy Clause and the federal government's delegated powers, thus not overstepping the 10th Amendment.

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As his first bill since being sworn in this January, the legislation is co-sponsored by fellow Colorado Republican Reps. Lauren Boebert, Jeff Crank and Jeff Hurd.

Hurd tweeted his support, emphasizing that Colorado would be safer by cooperating with federal law enforcement, especially concerning dangerous criminals in the country illegally. You know, sometimes it feels like we're playing political ping-pong with public safety.

House Resolution 1680 has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee for further consideration.