The mass removal of illegal immigrants is a priority for President Trump. As part of the many executive actions signed on his first day in office, the process of removing individuals in the country without a legal status has begun. Many sanctuary cities are preparing for federal law enforcement officials to begin mass deportation programs in the coming hours and days. Mr. Trump has directed the U.S. Justice Department federal prosecutors to investigate state or local officials who impede the program.

Many sanctuary cities have taken an active approach against the mass deportation removals. Ordinances have been enacted that prohibit accessing local law enforcement agents and city resources to help federal authorities in their removal operations. San Diego passed a policy that prevents county agencies from working with federal immigration authorities. Boston passed legislation that expressly prohibits local law enforcement officials from asking individuals about their immigration status or sharing that information with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Chicago, previously identified to be the first city to be targeted, called out the 2017 Illinois Trust Act, which prohibits local law enforcement officials from participating with federal immigration enforcement.

However, these sanctuary cities are in Trump’s focus. During his first term, President Trump cut off hundreds of millions of dollars in grants to sanctuary cities. Similar actions are anticipated. Homan promised big raids across the country starting as soon as possible.
Per President Trump’s order, all state and local officials are required to cooperate with federal authorities to carry out the mass removal. Per the Constitution’s Supremacy Clause, individuals who do not comply will face criminal or civil penalties, per the administration. Prosecutors are expected to be transferred to five U.S. attorneys’ offices near the border. Tactics are being developed to pressure departmental employees who are not actively carrying out the executive action.

If you have questions on the removal process or any other U.S. immigration related issue, contact us at ILBSG. Navigating the U.S. immigration system can be quite complex, particularly in times of change. Our clients work directly with attorneys to ensure they get the right advice for their particular situations.

Deportation Mass Deportation U.S. Removal