New York City has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, backed by Mayor Eric Adams, seeking to end U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrests at courthouses.
“No one should be afraid to send their children to school, go to a hospital when sick, call 911 when in danger, or go to a court hearing when called upon to do so,” Adams said.
City data shows that in recent months, half of all ICE courthouse arrests nationwide occurred in New York City, often at 26 Federal Plaza where immigrants attend mandatory hearings.
The Department of Homeland Security defended the practice, calling it efficient and safe. “Nothing in the Constitution prohibits arresting a lawbreaker where you find them,” Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement, arguing courthouse arrests conserve resources and protect officers.
Immigrant advocates say the tactic undermines due process. “People are being forced to choose between gambling by continuing with their case and risk being detained indefinitely, or to be ordered removed without even having a chance to present their case,” said Benjamin Remy of the New York Legal Assistance Group.
Court watchers like Sonia Wiecek attend hearings to provide support, gathering emergency contact information for detainees. “It’s a very small level of assurance — that people are out here and they’re looking out for them,” she said.
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