DHS Accuses California of Releasing 24,000 Criminal Illegal Immigrants

The Department of Homeland Security reported that California released nearly 24,000 illegal immigrants with criminal charges or convictions between January 20, 2025, and the present. DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin stated these individuals are linked to more than 81,000 criminal charges, including 169 homicides, 147 sexual assaults, and 3,295 burglaries. Mullin accused sanctuary politicians of endangering the public and creating environments where criminal activity can thrive.

California Attorney General Rob Bonta issued guidance in July directing state and local agencies to limit assistance to immigration enforcement unless a judicial warrant, subpoena, or court order is provided. Governor Gavin Newsom defended the state's record, asserting that California has cooperated with more ICE transfers than most other states and noting that he vetoed legislation that would have blocked such cooperation.

Federal authorities also criticized New York state, reporting that it failed to honor 14,916 detainers associated with 47,750 criminal charges between January 20, 2025, and September 14, 2026. The DHS report highlighted the real-world impact of these policies by citing a case in Utah where an illegal immigrant, released from California despite ICE detainers, was charged with murdering a veteran.