Trump Administration Sues New York City Over Sanctuary Policies
The Trump administration is taking legal action against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, targeting a sanctuary policy that limits collaboration between local officials and federal immigration authorities.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed cases involving both the city and the Big Apple Sanctuary Act. This marks another step in the Trump administration’s ongoing legal efforts against sanctuary cities across the country, as noted by Attorney General Pam Bondy in a recent social media post.
“The Justice Department is suing New York City and Mayor Eric Adams as it continues to obstruct law enforcement with its sanctuary city policies,” Bondy stated. She emphasized that if local leaders don’t act to protect their citizens, the federal government will.
This lawsuit comes shortly after two undocumented immigrants were reportedly ambushed and shot in Fort Washington Park, New York City. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) holds the sanctuary policies accountable for this attack.
According to DHS Deputy Chief of ICE, Tricia McLaughlin, “These violent individuals have a history of committing crimes and have been arrested multiple times, yet New York continues to release them.” She questioned how many more lives must be affected before Mayor Adams and other leaders change their policies.
Data reveals ICE has issued 6,025 detainer requests in New York City since January, a stark contrast to just 9,472 requests throughout the Biden administration.
While the term “sanctuary city” lacks an official definition, it generally refers to areas that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, often prohibiting local law enforcement from sharing information with ICE.
The Trump administration has consistently criticized New York City for its sanctuary laws, particularly in relation to access for ICE at Rikers Island. Attorney General Brett Schmate remarked, “For too long, New York City has obstructed the enforcement of immigration laws.” He added that efforts to hinder federal immigration enforcement are over.
Thursday’s lawsuit involves not just Mayor Adams but also the New York City Council, the Department of Corrections, and the New York Police Department, along with other local entities.
Recently, the Trump administration has brought multiple lawsuits against major sanctuary cities, including those in Chicago and Los Angeles.
