A group of 15 New York sheriffs has filed a lawsuit challenging a new state law that restricts local law enforcement’s cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The law, known as the "Local Cops, Local Crimes Act," prohibits local police from entering into agreements, such as the 287(g) program, that deputize them to enforce federal immigration law.
Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, a Republican, has been a vocal critic of the law, arguing that it will compromise public safety. "This law is written in the blood of the victims, past, present and future," Blakeman stated, asserting that the policy will make communities less safe. He cited cases involving individuals allegedly in the country illegally, including a recent charge of second-degree rape in his county and the killing of a Westchester County resident in Chicago. Blakeman expressed his administration's efforts to find ways to avoid complying with the law, but concluded that they must abide by it.
Governor Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, has defended the law, arguing in a memo that "current federal immigration efforts have made communities less safe." Her administration stated that the law does not impede ordinary criminal investigations or cooperation on violent crime. A spokesperson for the governor also suggested Blakeman's understanding of the law was incorrect, emphasizing that public safety remains the governor's top priority and that the law does not prevent police from apprehending dangerous criminals.
Despite the governor's assurances, the sheriffs' lawsuit argues that the ban on 287(g) agreements hinders their ability to address public safety concerns effectively. Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin, whose county is among those suing, has vowed not to comply with the law. In response to defiance, Governor Hochul announced a countersuit against Rensselaer County's sheriff for noncompliance.
Blakeman further contended that ICE involvement has been crucial in keeping certain suspects in custody who might otherwise be released under New York's bail laws. He pointed to recent successes in his county, including seizures of illegal handguns, drugs, and a significant gang takedown, attributing some of these successes to cooperation facilitated by ICE.
Some Republican officials have strongly criticized Hochul's stance. Representative Michael Lawler called the law evidence that Hochul "doesn't give a s— about public safety or the rule of law." The debate over the law is occurring amidst a broader discussion on criminal justice policies within the state's political landscape.