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Sanctuary Law Shielded Murderer, Hilton Blames Newsom

5/31/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Officials say California’s sanctuary law stopped ICE from detaining the suspect before the Modesto killings.
Joaquin Escoto, 28, was arrested in Modesto and charged with murder after stabbing three victims, including an infant.
Republican candidate Steve Hilton blamed Governor Gavin Newsom and sanctuary policies for letting the suspect remain in the community.

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Story summary

Officials say California’s sanctuary law stopped ICE from detaining the suspect before the Modesto killings.
Joaquin Escoto, 28, was arrested in Modesto and charged with murder after stabbing three victims, including an infant.
Republican candidate Steve Hilton blamed Governor Gavin Newsom and sanctuary policies for letting the suspect remain in the community.