Fact check: Does LAPD share arrest information with federal immigration authorities?

1. Summary of the results

The relationship between LAPD and federal immigration authorities is complex and nuanced. While LAPD officially maintains a non-cooperation stance with ICE ^[1], and has Special Order 40 prohibiting direct immigration status investigations ^[2], information sharing still occurs through indirect channels. Most notably, federal immigration authorities can access LAPD data through fusion centers, including information from license plate readers and body cameras ^[3].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Several important contextual elements need to be considered:

• Legal Framework: California has sanctuary laws limiting police cooperation with federal immigration authorities ^[4], and LA Mayor Karen Bass implemented a sanctuary law specifically barring city employees from directly assisting in immigration enforcement ^[2].
• Exceptions: There are explicit exceptions for serious offenses and violent crimes, where cooperation is permitted ^[2].
• Operational Reality: While LAPD Chief McDonnell stated they won't "assist or participate in mass deportations," he acknowledged that law enforcement agencies are obligated to help each other when requested ^[5]. During ICE raids, LAPD has been present but claims this was only in response to emergency service calls, not coordination ^[6].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question oversimplifies a complex issue. Several competing interests influence how this topic is presented:

• Law Enforcement Leadership: LAPD leadership benefits from maintaining the appearance of non-cooperation with ICE while preserving operational flexibility. Chief McDonnell's statements reflect this balance, explicitly denying cooperation while leaving room for necessary interactions ^[5].
• Activist Groups: Activists argue that the current system effectively undermines sanctuary city protections through "autopilot" data sharing ^[3]. They benefit from highlighting these contradictions to push for stronger protections.
• Federal Authorities: While they may not receive direct assistance, federal immigration authorities benefit from the current system as they can still access LAPD data through fusion centers ^[3], effectively circumventing sanctuary city protections.