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3d ago

Justice Department Sues New York Over Law Blocking Immigration Arrests at Courthouses

The Department of Justice contends that the law flouts the Constitution’s Supremacy Clause, obstructing federal officers from making secure arrests on courthouse grounds.

The crest of the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) is seen at their headquarters in Washington, D.C., U.S., May 10, 2021. REUTERS/Andrew Kelly/File photo
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Overview

  • The Justice Department filed its lawsuit on June 12 in federal court in Albany, seeking to invalidate the 2020 Protect Our Courts Act and two related executive orders.
  • The administration argues the state’s policies shield undocumented individuals at courthouses and remove safe venues for federal immigration enforcement.
  • Governor Kathy Hochul testified before Congress the same day and, alongside Attorney General Letitia James, pledged to defend the law as vital for immigrants to access justice without fear.
  • This legal action is the latest in a series of sanctuary policy challenges by the Trump administration, following suits against jurisdictions in New Jersey, Illinois and Colorado.
  • Justice Department officials maintain that conducting arrests at courthouses reduces risks of flight and violence thanks to existing security screenings.