Statement from Gunnison County Sheriff Adam W. Murdie

Editor’s note: Sheriff Adam W. Murdie released the following statement on Wednesday, Aug. 12. It is reprinted here in its entirety.

As your Sheriff, I want to address the recent events and intense commentary surrounding our office. Lately, I have faced heavy criticism, accusations of violating my oath, and calls to step down.

Growing up here, Gunnison was never this polarized. Unfortunately, it seems our community is not immune to the national trend of hostility toward differing views. I recently reviewed video from the Sheriff’s Office where individuals expressed significant anger toward visiting federal agents—professionals who are simply carrying out their sworn duties. I employ 40 dedicated individuals who do the same every day, and seeing peace officers targeted with disrespect remains deeply concerning.

To those questioning my oath: I take it seriously. My oath is to uphold the Constitution of the United States, as well as the Constitution and laws of the State of Colorado. As the late Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia noted, the Constitution "says what it says and doesn't say what it doesn't say." My duty is to enforce state and local law. I am a local elected official, not a federal agent.

Under the legal doctrine of Anti-Commandeering, the federal government cannot compel local law enforcement to enforce federal immigration law or honor civil detainers. Accordingly, I have made the decision to cease ICE cooperation at the Gunnison County Jail. We will continue to collaborate with federal agencies on standard public safety matters, but local jail resources will remain focused on local laws.

In my 30 years in law enforcement, I have chosen to serve in Sheriff’s Offices because the role belongs directly to the people. I have never viewed this position as a political tool, but recent rhetoric has dragged local public safety into the political theater. Real change happens through legislation and the true voice of the community—not political noise. My priority remains serving Gunnison County with integrity.

Sheriff Adam W. Murdie

SPSC375

510 W. Bidwell Ave.   

Gunnison, CO 81230