Letitia James Moves to Stop ICE Courthouse Arrests in New York

New York Attorney General Letitia James has filed a motion in federal court seeking to block U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from conducting arrests inside immigration courthouses, describing the practice as unlawful, harmful, and a threat to public safety.

The request, filed with the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, argues that courthouse arrests discourage immigrants from participating in legal proceedings including attending hearings, testifying in cases, and seeking judicial protections. James said such practices undermine the justice system and jeopardize community safety.

“Courthouses are dedicated to the pursuit of justice, not targeted harassment and arrests,” James said in a statement. “With these cruel and unlawful courthouse arrests, the federal government is weaponizing fear to push immigrants into the shadows, drive families apart, and risk everyone’s safety. I will not stand by while New Yorkers are stripped of their rights and our courts are used for intimidation.”

According to her office, courthouse arrests cause families to be torn apart, destabilize households, and inflict long-term emotional harm on children. James cited a 2020 legal victory and state legislation that previously prohibited immigration-related arrests in New York courthouses, stressing that the federal government’s new enforcement approach reignites the same dangers.

James is asking the court to suspend the federal policy while the case moves forward in litigation.

Letitia James Moves to Stop ICE Courthouse Arrests in New York