Seventeen sheriffs from various counties in Maryland have united to file a lawsuit against the state regarding a new law intended to protect undocumented immigrants. Law enforcement officials argue that this measure could compromise safety in Maryland.
Sheriff Jeffrey R. Gahler of Harford County, along with his sixteen counterparts, has submitted a petition in federal court to challenge the recently enacted Community Trust Act (SB0791).
Sheriff Gahler expressed concern, stating, “This is an intentional state-mandated interference with public safety.” He criticized the law for limiting the ability of local officials and law enforcement to work with federal authorities. “It stops us from sharing crucial information,” he added.
“This isn’t just a political issue; it’s about public safety,” said Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli. “We strongly believe this law undermines our capacity to safeguard our counties.”
The new law passed with a vote count of 92-37 in the House and 32-15 in the Senate, notably without the approval of Governor Wes Moore.
The Community Trust Act restricts collaboration with federal immigration officials and mandates that agents present a felony conviction or judicial warrant before county law enforcement can inquire about an individual’s immigration status.
The sheriffs claim in their lawsuit that this law infringes on federal authority regarding immigration enforcement and violates the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution. They argue it effectively compels state law enforcement to contravene federal laws by providing sanctuary to undocumented individuals.
A recent statement from the group FAIR noted, “Maryland’s sanctuary law creates a conflict that makes it impossible to adhere to both federal and state laws.”
“Sanctuary laws pose a risk to our communities and are fundamentally unconstitutional,” stated Dale L. Wilcox, Executive Director of FAIR. He emphasized the necessity for a unified national policy on illegal immigration, asserting that federal law’s supremacy must remain unquestioned. This lawsuit aims to protect sheriffs’ abilities to ensure community safety against the disruption this law causes.
Other sheriffs have also added their thoughts on both the lawsuit and the new legislation.
Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis remarked, “It’s disheartening that the governor and the legislature are prioritizing partisan politics over the well-being of all Marylanders.” Frederick County Sheriff Chuck Jenkins shared similar sentiments, stating, “After individuals have served their sentences or once judicial decisions have been made, I’m obligated to release these individuals back into the community, including those charged with serious offenses.”
