Mesa County has filed a federal lawsuit against Colorado officials, claiming that a state law restricting cooperation with federal immigration authorities is so vague that it is unconstitutional.
The law, known as Article 74, prohibits local law enforcement from sharing certain information with federal agents for immigration enforcement purposes, except during active criminal investigations. County officials argue the statute has created confusion, chilled communication with federal agencies, and hindered investigations into drug smuggling, child exploitation, and sex crimes.
The dispute stems from a June 5, 2025, traffic stop in which Deputy Alexander Zwinck pulled over 19-year-old Utah college student Caroline Dias Goncalves, an asylum applicant from Brazil. Although Zwinck issued only a warning, he alerted immigration officials via a Signal chat intended for drug enforcement. Goncalves was later detained by ICE for 15 days.
Following the incident, Sheriff Todd Rowell placed Zwinck on unpaid leave for three weeks. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser sued the deputy, prompting Mesa County to take legal action.
“This step is not just lawful, it’s necessary,” said County Attorney Todd Starr, asserting that the law’s vagueness exposes employees to politically motivated litigation.
The county is asking the court to clarify that violations occur only if information is shared solely for immigration enforcement and that officers may check immigration status for legitimate law enforcement reasons.
Weiser and Governor Jared Polis are named as defendants. Weiser’s office said the law is clear that Colorado does not engage in federal civil immigration enforcement and pledged to defend it.
Katie is a senior who has been on staff for three years. Her favorite type of stories to write is reviews and features. Katie’s favorite ice cream flavor is strawberry.
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