Escondido Council Keeps ICE Training Contract Amid Protests
Read, Watch or Listen
Escondido — City councilmembers voted to retain a contract allowing Department of Homeland Security agents, ICE officers, to use the Escondido Police Department firing range for training. The arrangement, which officials say reflects prior use since 2013 and a formal 2024 agreement, drew dozens of protesters and nearly 200 public comments opposing the contract during a council meeting. Speakers cited concerns about local cooperation with immigration enforcement and recent federal actions. Council rejected a motion to end the agreement after hours of discussion. The city will receive $22,500 annually under the multi‑year contract. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.
Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.
Timeline of Events
- 2013: ICE Homeland Security Investigations officers began using the Escondido Police Department firing range.
- 2024: The Escondido Police Department established a formal contract with the Department of Homeland Security.
- Late 2024 / January (as reported): The DHS contract was reported renewed; outlets cite renewal timing in late 2024 and January reporting.
- Weeks before council meeting: Dozens of residents rallied outside City Hall and organizers mobilized public comment opposing the contract.
- Council meeting: Nearly 200 people spoke during public comment; council voted to keep the DHS/ICE firing range contract.
Why This Matters to You
This decision impacts your community. It shows how local government interacts with federal agencies like ICE. If you're concerned about immigration enforcement, this is a key issue. Keep an eye on council meetings and voice your thoughts.
The Bottom Line
Escondido council chose to keep the ICE training contract, despite public opposition. The city will earn $22,500 annually from this deal. If you disagree, consider contacting your local representative or attending future council meetings. Worth forwarding if you know someone in Escondido.
- Articles Published:
- 6
- Right Leaning:
- 1
- Left Leaning:
- 1
- Neutral:
- 4
- Distribution:
- Left 17%, Center 67%, Right 17%
The Escondido city government and law enforcement benefit financially and operationally from the DHS contract, receiving roughly $22,500 annually and maintaining a local training facility for federal and local officers.
Opponents, including immigrant families and advocacy groups, experienced frustration and public outcry after the council retained the DHS training contract despite widespread protests and public comment.
Coverage of Story:
From Left
Community Pushback: Calls Intensify for Local Governments to Terminate ICE Training Contracts on Public Gun Ranges - Internewscast Journal
Internewscast JournalFrom Center
Escondido Council Keeps ICE Training Contract Amid Protests
KTAR News News 4 Jax KGTV KGTV
Comments