City Councilwoman Attempts to Thwart Ice Raids Sparking Controversy

Denver Councilwoman Stacie Gilmore mobilizes volunteers to thwart ICE raids, sparking controversy and debate over immigration enforcement.

Quick Takes

Councilwoman Gilmore organizes 600+ volunteers to report ICE activities in Denver
Effort aims to help illegal immigrants avoid capture and deportation
Denver faces strain on public services after accepting 45,000+ migrants since 2022
Recent criminal incidents involving Venezuelan gangs heighten tensions
Republican critics argue against tolerating illegal immigration

Denver Councilwoman’s Controversial Stance on ICE Raids

Denver Councilwoman Stacie Gilmore has ignited a fierce debate by actively encouraging residents to report Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities in an effort to help illegal immigrants avoid capture. Gilmore has mobilized over 600 volunteers with the Colorado Rapid Response Network to take calls in English and Spanish around the clock, creating a formidable obstacle to federal immigration enforcement efforts.

Colorado City Councilmember Stacie Gilmore is asking people to report ICE's activities and real time locations so that illegal aliens can be warned. pic.twitter.com/AOM8JEqa8x

— Libs of TikTok (@libsoftiktok) February 4, 2025

Gilmore’s initiative includes advising residents to document ICE raids by taking photos or videos and noting details such as time, date, location, and involved agencies. She has also used social media to provide resources for illegal immigrants, including legal aid and job training information.

Growing Tensions Over Immigration in Denver

The councilwoman’s actions come at a time of heightened tensions surrounding illegal immigration in Denver. The city has accepted over 45,000 migrants since 2022, putting significant strain on public services such as schools and parks. This influx has led to concerns about the city’s ability to maintain its infrastructure and provide adequate services to all residents.

“This is a challenging and heartbreaking time for our community. If you see activity by ICE, stay safe and know you have every right to report it.” – Stacie Gilmore

The situation has been further complicated by recent criminal incidents involving Venezuelan gangs. A viral video allegedly showing Venezuelan gang members engaged in criminal activity has brought national attention to the issue of illegal immigration in Denver. In response, local authorities have taken action, including ordering the shutdown of the Edge at Lowry apartment complex in Aurora, which has been associated with the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang and deemed an “imminent threat” to public safety.

Political Divide and Federal Response

The controversy has highlighted the deep political divide on immigration issues. While Democratic leaders across the U.S., including Denver Mayor Mike Johnston, have vowed to resist efforts to deport illegal immigrants, Republican critics argue against tolerating illegal immigration. Denver has already spent over $356 million on migrant services, a figure that has raised eyebrows among fiscal conservatives.

At the federal level, President Trump has promised a federal operation to expedite the removal of gangs, announcing plans for an “Operation Aurora” during a campaign rally in Colorado. This proposed action stands in stark contrast to the efforts of local officials like Councilwoman Gilmore, who are working to impede ICE operations.

Impact on Public Services and Safety

Critics of Denver’s approach to illegal immigration, including Councilman Roger Hudson, have voiced concerns about the impact on the city’s public services and infrastructure. The strain on resources has become a focal point for those arguing for stricter immigration enforcement.

The debate over immigration enforcement in Denver continues to intensify, with no clear resolution in sight. As federal authorities work to address criminal elements within immigrant communities, local officials like Councilwoman Gilmore remain committed to protecting undocumented residents, setting the stage for ongoing conflict between local and federal priorities.