FOXNews | 15:00 08-12-2025 | US Today
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has raised alarming concerns about the state of Illinois' policy of releasing violent foreign-born criminals, despite active detainers placed by the ICE. This action has exposed locals to safety threats as the authorities estimate over 1,700 such releases since January alone. The allegation implies that Illinois is prioritizing political agenda over public safety, which ICE vehemently cautions against.
According to the ICE, a federal law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, these released individuals pose potential dangers as they have committed heinous crimes including murder, sexual abuse, and drug trafficking. The agency further warns that these criminals, if not handed over to ICE for deportation, are likely to re-offend, thus seriously endangering the community.
Michigan and Illinois are among a few states that have sanctuary policies, which limit local authorities' cooperation with ICE. This hinders the agency's efforts to deport undocumented immigrants who have committed serious crimes, therefore leading to an increase in the releases. Critics argue that these policies obstruct the protocol of handing over detainees to federal immigration authorities following their release from local custody and are thus risking public safety.
ICE has been urging Illinois and other sanctuary jurisdictions to review their policies in light of these recurring releases. It emphasizes the need for open and thorough collaboration between local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to curb crime and protect communities. The ongoing debate surrounding this issue continues to highlight the complexities entangled within immigration practices, public safety, and local laws.