State and local governments cannot be forced into enforcing federal law. That’s a good thing, They can have federal funding cut off though.
The way you “Force” someone into “Complying” with the law is by CRIMINAL PROSECUTION. so to your statement,
YES THEY CAN, by Putting them in JAIL for The FELONIES THEY ARE COMMITTING.
see Post 22
Would you say the same if a sheriff refused to enforce gun control laws?