Sheriff Jeff Dirkse

Well said.

There are reports of U.S. Customs and Border Protection conducting enforcement operations across the Central Valley. To clarify, the law enforcement agencies of Stanislaus County, including the Modesto Police Department, are NOT involved in these operations.

Our collective policies, guided by Senate Bill 54 (The California Values Act), ensure limited cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. Local law enforcement agencies do NOT engage in immigration enforcement actions, as this responsibility lies with designated federal agencies like U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

We want to assure our community that our focus remains on protecting public safety and fostering trust. While we do not participate in immigration enforcement, we will assist in situations involving:
• Clear and immediate public safety threats,
• Apprehension of dangerous felons who present an ongoing risk to our community, or
• Emergencies requiring law enforcement intervention.

If you are a victim or witness of a crime, you can rely on your Stanislaus County Law Enforcement Agencies for assistance—regardless of your immigration status.

We are committed to serving and protecting every member of our communities with dignity, fairness, and professionalism.

SVOU cleaning up the rivers for the summer!

Sunset after the storm.

Beautiful morning for a hike in Knight’s Ferry. Fergus enjoyed the wind.