The San Diego County Sheriff's Office issued a statement Monday after a social media post circulated showing federal agents gathered in the public parking lot of its North Coastal station in Encinitas.

According to a statement from Lt. Michael Davis, a spokesperson for the Sheriff's Office, the department does not assist federal agencies with immigration enforcement. "Any federal agency participating in immigration-related operations in Encinitas have done so without prior knowledge or assistance from the North Coastal Sheriff's Station," Davis said.

The Sheriff's Office emphasized that it operates under California's Values Act, also known as Senate Bill 54, which limits cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. Emergency 911 response and criminal law enforcement remain the department's focus, not immigration operations.

The incident reflects ongoing tensions across San Diego County between federal immigration enforcement efforts and local agencies that have committed to maintaining community trust. East County residents and advocacy groups have been particularly attentive to federal immigration activity in the region, with reports of ICE activity near schools and public locations drawing attention in recent months.

The Sheriff's Office reiterated its commitment to transparency, stating it remains "dedicated to building a culture of trust" with all communities it serves.