Backlash Against Philadelphia DA’s Warning to ICE

Law enforcement organizations, supporters of former President Donald Trump, and the Department of Homeland Security took to social media to criticize Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner. His statements came as he cautioned the National Guard and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in light of Trump’s initiatives on immigration and fraud.

Krasner issued a warning on his social media, stating, “To ICE and the National Guard: If you commit a crime in Philadelphia, we will prosecute you and hold you accountable to the fullest extent of the law.” Accompanying this was a black-and-white photo of him wearing sunglasses with the caption “FAFO.”

The term “FAFO” is internet slang meaning “go around and find it,” and has gained traction among Trump and his supporters as a pointed warning to critics and adversaries.

Critics have often targeted Krasner, who has been in office since 2018, for his policies on reducing cash bail and changing charges on lesser offenses. Republicans have consistently pointed to his office’s bail and legal strategies as causes for rising public safety concerns, culminating in impeachment efforts that were ultimately unsuccessful in court.

Conservative groups and police associations condemned Krasner’s remarks. His comments appeared against a backdrop of increased federal law enforcement activity in Minnesota, where a woman was recently shot during a significant fraud investigation.

One police association leader remarked, “Because of this embarrassment of prosecutors, murderers, robbers, rapists are routinely given the velvet glove treatment…what a joke,” targeting Krasner directly. The National Police Association added, “It’s not like criminals in Philadelphia are having their charges dropped by the DA’s office.”

The Department of Homeland Security responded with memes dismissing Krasner’s remarks, including a GIF that humorously ignored his statement.

Some individuals labeled Krasner’s approach as “clowning,” with one commentator noting that Krasner hasn’t expressed similar sentiments towards actual criminals, suggesting that Philadelphia suffers as a result. Another person criticized him for being a “Soros prosecutor,” referencing his funding sources.

Amid broad Democratic criticism of ICE following a related shooting in Minnesota, Krasner’s social media post reflects growing tensions around immigration enforcement. Former New Jersey State Senate candidate Mike Crispi, in a critique, argued that Krasner’s statements show a misunderstanding of federal versus local law.

Democratic leaders, including Minnesota’s Governor Tim Walz, have mobilized the National Guard to assist local law enforcement for public safety in the wake of incidents involving federal immigration agents. Meanwhile, Krasner’s office has yet to respond to the surrounding mockery and backlash regarding his recent statements.