DOJ Sues New York City Over Sanctuary Policies

WASHINGTON – The Justice Department has launched a broad lawsuit against New York City, Mayor Eric Adams, and several city officials regarding the city’s Sanctuary Act, filing it in Brooklyn Federal Court. This action comes shortly after a disturbing incident in which U.S. Customs border officers were shot during a robbery attempt.

The DOJ claims that the city’s policies, which limit collaboration with federal immigration enforcement, are unconstitutional. A federal attorney articulated this perspective in a 37-page document, stating, “The United States has well-established authority to regulate immigration.” New York City, he noted, has long been at the forefront of obstructing federal immigration laws.

“This week, New York City’s Sanctuary policies are experiencing tragic outcomes,” the lawyer continued.

Over the weekend, an illegal immigrant reportedly shot a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agent in the face while trying to flee on a moped. The suspect, identified as Miguel Francisco Maura Nunez, allegedly collaborated with another illegal immigrant to attack the federal agent.

DOJ officials highlighted that both individuals had entered the country illegally and had multiple criminal arrests prior to this incident.

The lawsuit reveals that after being arrested for felony grand larceny in April 2024, one of the suspects had been detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). However, the New York City Department of Corrections allegedly failed to maintain custody, allowing him to return to the streets.

According to the federal government, New York City’s immigration laws undermine federal authority as outlined in the Constitution.

Attorney General Pam Bondy stated that the lawsuit aims to address New York City and Mayor Adams for hindering law enforcement through their sanctuary city policies. “These policies have released numerous criminals who commit violent acts against law-abiding citizens,” she remarked.

City Hall did not immediately respond to inquiries regarding the lawsuit.

Since the Trump administration began, the DOJ has pursued legal action against various cities, including Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York, to challenge their sanctuary policies.

Amid a tough reelection campaign, Mayor Adams has met with ICE officials, taking some steps to partner with the federal government on immigration matters, including allowing ICE access to Rikers Island.

Despite these efforts, ICE’s Tom Homan expressed frustration, stating, “The police on duty want to help us, but they are hindered by the sanctuary policies established by Bill de Blasio and supported by the city council.” He described New York as not being supportive of law enforcement’s efforts.

Concerns about the administration’s direction were underscored recently during the Democratic primary, where socialist candidate Zoran Mamdani pledged to resist federal deportation efforts.

“New York City has long obstructed the enforcement of our immigration laws,” said Attorney General Brett Schmate, who is spearheading the case. “It’s time to end these efforts to prevent federal immigration enforcement.”