West Hollywood Councilman Proposes Drone Use Against ICE, Sparking Federal-Local Tensions

West Hollywood Councilman Danny Wang recently inquired about the potential use of Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASDHQ) drones to intercept federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations within the city. The inquiry, made at an official council meeting, has drawn attention to the ongoing debate over local versus federal jurisdiction in immigration matters.

The councilman's question was highlighted by Houman David Hemmati, MD, PhD, who stated in a tweet, "😱 Whoa!!! West Hollywood councilman Danny Wang, at an official council meeting, inquired about using a @LASDHQ Sheriff’s DRONE to intercept ICE! What’s this place coming to? We can’t have municipal vs federal warfare in our cities!" This sentiment underscores concerns about potential conflicts between local and federal authorities.

Wang's inquiry comes as West Hollywood is in the process of implementing its "Safer WeHo" pilot program, which includes the deployment of aerial drones and fixed cameras for public safety. Approved by the City Council in July 2024 with a budget of $750,000 for technology enhancements, the program was slated for implementation in the first quarter of 2025 following a three-month outreach period.

However, the drone program has not been without its complexities. Reports from February 2025 indicated that the "Drone Safety Program" was put on hold "over recording ban," suggesting internal discussions or restrictions regarding the drones' operational capabilities, particularly concerning data collection and privacy. This context adds another layer to Councilman Wang's specific request, raising questions about the intended use and legal parameters of the city's newly acquired drone technology.

The broader implications of a local government potentially using its resources to counter federal immigration enforcement are significant. While Councilman John Heilman previously supported the general drone program for crime prevention, Vice Mayor Chelsea Byers and Councilwoman Sepi Shyne had voiced concerns about public outreach and the implications of surveillance technology. The latest development introduces a new dimension to these discussions, highlighting the tension between local autonomy and federal mandates.