The U.S. federal government has introduced a new approach that allows Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to work around local “sanctuary city” policies. These local laws often prevent police from cooperating with federal immigration authorities.
Instead of relying on detainers (requests to hold individuals), the new strategy involves charging individuals who reenter the U.S. illegally after deportation with federal felony offenses. Local authorities are required by law to comply with federal felony warrants, even in sanctuary cities. This change has enabled ICE to take custody of hundreds of individuals in areas where cooperation was previously limited.
This legal shift is part of “Operation Guardian Angel,” which uses felony reentry charges to enforce immigration laws more directly. The move has sparked debate, particularly in cities like Los Angeles, where tensions have escalated.
Amid recent unrest in California, Senator Josh Hawley announced an investigation into the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA). He claims the group may be providing resources to protestors involved in the disturbances. In a formal letter, Hawley demanded that CHIRLA stop any support that might be contributing to unlawful activity.
In response to the violence, the federal government deployed National Guard troops and Marines to Los Angeles to help restore order. The decision drew criticism from California officials, including Governor Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass, who argued that local authorities were equipped to handle the situation.
The clash between federal immigration enforcement and local sanctuary city policies remains a point of contention, highlighting ongoing disagreements about the best approach to immigration and public safety.
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