The
Associated Press
recently reported that federal immigration authorities have finalized
policies regarding courthouse immigration raids. The Trump administration
has formalized its practice of sending Immigration and Customs Enforcement
(ICE) agents into courthouse to arrested undocumented immigrants, even
as judges and immigration advocacy groups have complained that the practice
creates an atmosphere of intimidation and fear for victims of crime, witnesses,
and individuals seeking relief from the court system. Court officials,
including the California Supreme Court Justice Chief, Tani G. Cantil-Sakauye,
have asked ICE to avoid courthouses, citing the need for justice and legal
access for all individuals, regardless of their immigration status. The
two-page ICE memo states that ICE agents only will enter courthouses when
they are targeted specific immigrants, such as those convicted of a crime,
gang members, and individuals who previously have been deported. While
the memo indicates that ICE generally will not detain family, friends,
and witnesses of the targeted immigrants, it creates an exception for
“special circumstances” that might necessitate their arrests,
as well. The policy also states that ICE agents generally should avoid
making arrests in non-criminal areas of the court, such as family court
and small claims court. The memo also cites the unwillingness of some
jurisdictions, including various California cities, to cooperate with
immigration agents as justification for their intrusion into courthouses,
which are traditionally “safe” places for everyone. This was
clearly a jab directed at sanctuary cities, whom the Trump administration
has been targeting with increased immigration enforcement efforts. ICE
Acting Director Thomas Homan also stated that he believed criminal courthouse
arrests to be safer for ICE agents due to security measures in courthouses,
such as metal detectors. No matter your situation,
Landerholm Immigration, A.P.C.
is an Oakland immigration law firm who has dedicated its practice to protecting
the interests of immigrants who are facing deportation. Whether you are
potentially deportable due to a visa overstay or a lack of valid immigration
status, we can help. We are prepared to build the strongest case possible
in order to
defend you against deportation. Contact us today to set up your
legal consultation
and discover what assistance we can offer to you and your family.
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