Despite New York’s status as a sanctuary state for immigrants and assurances by the New York State court system, evidence shows that clerks and officers of these courts have cooperated with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to facilitate the arrest and detention of immigrants in court for matters unrelated to their immigration status. According to reports filed by court officials, employees of the court system assisted in a New York ICE arrest six times out of 66 arrests between February 2017 and August 2018.
New Regulations May Have Caused Confusion
Confusion about new policies enacted in April 2017 by the New York Office of Court Administration may have been partly responsible for the actions taken by court officials on behalf of ICE. These new regulations required ICE officials to identify themselves and to inform the court system about their intentions and their targets when they entered courthouses in New York. These regulations also put the responsibility for public safety on court personnel for maintaining public safety. This may have led to a mistaken belief on the part of court officials that they are expected to offer assistance in New York ICE arrests.
Protecting the Rights of Immigrants
New York’s stance as a sanctuary for immigrants is intended to provide these vulnerable individuals with a safe space for reporting crimes and serving as witnesses in court proceedings. This can provide added protection for victims of exploitation, violence and other crimes. Enlisting the help of a qualified New York immigration lawyer can also ensure that immigrants receive the best guidance and representation to deal with deportation cases and other issues that can directly affect their ability to remain in the U.S.
New York ICE Arrest Attorney
If you need the services of an experienced New York immigration lawyer, the experts at Oltarsh & Associates, P.C. can provide you with help in dealing with a New York ICE arrest or other issues related to your immigration status. We work with families and individuals to ensure the best resolution for these problems and to provide you with the right solutions for your needs. Call us today at 212-944-9420 to schedule a free case evaluation with our team. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you.
