Over recent weeks, Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam has addressed the ongoing events in Minneapolis and their effects on communities nationwide. In a statement released January 30, 2026, Sheriff Balaam emphasized his office’s commitment to public safety and the protection of constitutional rights.
“As Sheriff, my highest priority is the safety of everyone in our community and the protection of life, liberty, and property. The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to providing fair, impartial, and professional law enforcement services while upholding the constitutional rights of all individuals. Public safety depends on thoughtful, coordinated action, and we will continue to work closely with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to ensure responses are measured, unified, and effective when addressing crime in our region,” Balaam stated.
Sheriff Balaam called for a thorough investigation into the incidents in Minneapolis. “It is essential that the incidents in Minneapolis be thoroughly, transparently, and objectively investigated. If the facts support wrongdoing, those responsible must be held accountable through the appropriate judicial process. However, it is neither fair nor appropriate to reach conclusions before all relevant facts and evidence have been gathered and carefully reviewed. Accountability must be grounded in verified information, as premature judgments undermine both public trust and the integrity of our justice system.”
He also reiterated his office’s focus on community safety while supporting peaceful expression: “Our focus remains on maintaining safety and preventing harm within our community. We support peaceful and lawful expression and encourage individuals to exercise their rights in a manner that does not place others, including public servants, at risk. The Sheriff’s Office will continue working to protect the public while addressing any actions that threaten community safety.”
Addressing immigration enforcement practices at the county detention facility—a policy maintained for over three decades—Balaam explained: “The Washoe County Sheriff’s Office has allowed federal immigration enforcement access to our detention facility for more than 30 years. Throughout that time, I have been consistent and clear regarding the role my office plays in immigration matters. Immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility, and our involvement is limited to cooperating with our federal partners when necessary to address legitimate public safety concerns.”
He continued: “Individuals are housed in our detention facility only under lawful authority and in full compliance with constitutional due process, Nevada law, and applicable federal requirements. Based on my experience, allowing immigration enforcement access to our facility enhances safety not only for individuals who are undocumented but also for the officers, my staff, and the community as a whole. This long-standing practice ensures secure controlled interactions and supports the orderly administration of justice while prioritizing public safety for everyone.”
Sheriff Balaam concluded by reaffirming his office’s commitment: “We will continue to coordinate closely with our federal state and local partners to ensure the safety and security of our community. These partnerships reflect a shared responsibility and a coordinated approach to public safety rooted in professionalism transparency and accountability.”
“Our office remains committed to maintaining peace enforcing the law fairly and protecting the community we serve. We will continue to monitor national developments closely and will provide additional information as appropriate,” he said.
