Colorado Congressman Pushes ICE to Focus on Criminal Threats as Immigration Tensions Rise in Denver

In a significant move affecting Colorado's approach to immigration enforcement, Rep. Gabe Evans (R-CO) has joined five other Republican lawmakers in calling for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to concentrate its resources on removing criminal elements from Colorado communities and across the nation.

The push comes as immigration tensions escalate across the Front Range, with Denver experiencing significant protests this week that resulted in 18 arrests, according to Denver Police Department reports.

Local Impact on Colorado Communities

For Colorado families, particularly in areas struggling with cartel activity, Evans' stance reflects growing concerns about public safety. The congressman highlighted a troubling statistic in his statement:

"We're focusing on crushing the criminals and cartels who are making Colorado the second most dangerous state in the nation so we can work on a path for people who are immigrating the right way."

Personal Connection to Immigration Reform

Evans brings a unique perspective to the immigration debate, as his grandfather was a Mexican immigrant who earned his U.S. citizenship through military service during World War II. This personal history shapes his approach to immigration reform in Colorado.

Local Opposition and Community Response

The congressman's position has drawn criticism from local immigration advocates. Raquel Lane-Arellano, representing the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition in Evans' district, expressed concern:

"Rep. Gabe Evans wants to decide who from our communities deserves to stay, but tearing families apart has never made our country stronger."

Legislative Actions and Future Impact

Evans' recent activities on immigration include:

• Introduction of legislation to prevent state and local governments from restricting cooperation with federal immigration officials
• Joining the Congressional Hispanic Conference's effort to demand clarity on ICE deportation statistics
• Requesting data on criminal records of those deported since January

For Colorado residents, particularly in communities along the Front Range, these developments signal potential changes in how immigration enforcement might affect local neighborhoods, businesses, and families in the coming months.

The congressman's office has indicated they expect responses from ICE regarding their inquiries by the end of the month, which could influence future immigration enforcement priorities across Colorado.

This article contains AI-generated content and reflects opinion only. Readers are encouraged to verify all information independently before drawing conclusions or making decisions.