Washoe County Sheriff Clarifies Noem Reno Visit

The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office is clarifying its position following a visit to Reno by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

Noem spoke on March 2 at the Western States Sheriff’s Association Annual Conference held at the Peppermill Resort. In remarks shared on her official accounts, Noem expressed confidence that increased cooperation among U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and local law enforcement would help deliver on public safety priorities under President Donald Trump, including safer communities and restored law and order.

Following community questions and concerns, particularly regarding immigration enforcement, the sheriff’s office issued a statement outlining several key points.

According to WCSO, immigration was not a topic of discussion during the conference. The office also stated that while it routinely collaborates with federal partners, including ICE, Noem’s visit does not signal any increased ICE presence or operational changes in Washoe County.

ICE has long conducted interviews at the Washoe County Detention Facility, the sheriff’s office noted, but that practice remains unchanged.

WCSO emphasized that its local policies remain the same: Deputies do not initiate contact, detain, or arrest individuals solely based on suspected undocumented immigration status.