The intense debate regarding illegal immigration is sure to further inflame after a ruling from Judge Indira Talwani of the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts.
On Thursday, Talwani decreed that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials may not arrest illegal immigrants who venture onto the premises of courthouses and courthouse parking lots. This is a measure which many conservatives have censured especially since Talwani’s appointment took place because of former President Obama.
Everything You Need to Know about Judge Talwani’s Ruling
Per Talwani’s ruling, ICE officials are barred from “civilly arresting parties, witnesses and others attending Massachusetts courthouses on official business while they are going to, attending or leaving the courthouse.” Of course, this ruling directly blocks the ability of ICE officials to do their jobs.
The reasoning behind the judge’s decision is also very fascinating. Apparently, certain officials believe that arresting illegal immigrants on the grounds of courthouses will backfire and scare illegal immigrants from ever appearing in a courthouse. However, not everyone shares this view. Immigration officials maintain that arrests on courthouse grounds with metal detectors will decrease the likelihood of weapons possession on the end of illegal immigrants.
ICE Pushback on Lax Immigration Enforcement
Many ICE officials maintain objection towards decrees which impede their ability to do their jobs. In a recent op-ed, Thomas Homan, the former ICE acting director, explained these frustrations.
