Law group fights sanctuary cities breaking immigration rules


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Donald Trump’s incoming deputy chief of staff for policy’s law firm has initiated a significant legal warning campaign targeting sanctuary cities and states regarding immigration law compliance.

America First Legal, established by Stephen Miller, has distributed 249 warning letters to various officials in jurisdictions maintaining sanctuary policies, cautioning them about potential conflicts with federal immigration authorities.

Recipients of these warnings include prominent figures like Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell, San Diego County Supervisor Nora Vargas, and California Attorney General Rob Bonta.

“As Attorney General, on December 4, 2024, you stated that the State of California will not enforce federal immigration laws, encouraging defiance by all California jurisdictions. … This rhetoric illustrates the State’s intent to blatantly violate federal law,” the letter to California AG Bonta reads. “Such lawlessness subjects you and your subordinates to significant risk of criminal and civil liability. Accordingly, we are sending this letter to put you on notice of this risk and insist that you comply with our nation’s laws.”

“The fact of the matter is that you and the other officials who support or enforce sanctuary laws, policies, and regulations have a very personal stake in the matter — you each could face criminal prosecution and civil liability for your illegal acts,” the letter warns.

The organization has launched a comprehensive website named “Sanctuary Strongholds,” providing detailed information about sanctuary jurisdictions nationwide and contact details for elected officials in areas potentially violating federal regulations. Additionally, they’re monitoring crimes committed by undocumented immigrants against American women and children.

The legal group is actively pursuing information from local governments through formal requests to identify any interference with legitimate federal activities.

America First Legal senior counsel James Rogers stated in an email: “Federal law is clear: illegal aliens are subject to removal from the country, and it is a crime to conceal, harbor, or shield them. Sanctuary policies are against the law, make a mockery of America’s democratic principles, and demonstrate a shocking disrespect for our Constitution and our citizens. The officials in charge of sanctuary jurisdictions have no excuse and must be held accountable. America First Legal is proud to be a part of this fight to protect our borders and to stand up for the rule of the law.”

Former Trump border czar Tom Homan has also addressed sanctuary jurisdiction leaders, emphasizing potential legal consequences for opposing federal immigration enforcement.

During a November statement, Homan advised local officials to review federal statutes, specifically stating: “They need to review this: Title 8 U.S.C. § 1324 — read about that and don’t cross that line. Because it is a felony to harbor or conceal an illegal alien from ICE. Read the statute. Don’t cross that line.”

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