Sgt. Bryan Lovell
Credit: Local News 8 Screenshot
Sergeant Brian Lovell, president of the Idaho Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), recently spoke on Newstalk 107.9 to clarify the organization’s stance on proposed state immigration legislation. Despite expressing support for federal border security measures, Lovell noted that several bills currently moving through the Idaho legislature create significant practical challenges for local law enforcement agencies.
Lovell addressed a perceived disconnect between state lawmakers and the law enforcement community regarding mandates that would require local departments to partner with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). While Lovell acknowledged that Idaho agencies have cooperated with federal partners for decades, he argued that new legislative mandates regarding the 287(g) program and mandatory data collection are redundant and underfunded. He specifically pointed to concerns that patrol officers would be required to perform complex citizenship verifications, a task usually handled during the jail booking process.
According to Lovell, these requirements could divert limited resources away from emergency response and local safety. “That takes officers off the street; that takes cops out of your community to stretch that manpower that’s still responding to 911 calls and crashes,” Lovell told Newstalk 107.9. He described the situation as the state government forcing local municipalities to perform the federal government’s job without providing the necessary training or system access.
The interview also highlighted a breakdown in communication between the legislature and stakeholders. Lovell claimed that many bills were introduced without consulting the FOP, the Idaho Sheriffs’ Association, or police chiefs. He specifically noted that despite claims of collaboration from some senators and representatives, many law enforcement groups felt their concerns were being ignored or dismissed during committee hearings.
Beyond specific legislation, the discussion touched on the FOP’s increasing political involvement. Lovell confirmed he is serving as the treasurer for Connor Cook’s campaign against Representative Barb Ehardt. While he praised Ehardt’s record, he emphasized a need for representatives who are more willing to collaborate with law enforcement stakeholders during the bill-drafting process. Lovell concluded by urging citizens to build stronger relationships with their local sheriffs and chiefs to understand the complexities of law enforcement before supporting sweeping legislative changes.
