Politics / US News
DOJ Sues New York City Over Dangerous Sanctuary Policies
“New York City has released thousands of criminals on the streets to commit violent crimes against law-abiding citizens due to sanctuary city policies. If New York City won’t stand up for the safety of its citizens, we will.”
RWTNews Staff
July 24, 2025 - On July 24, 2025, the Justice Department filed a lawsuit against New York City, Mayor Eric Adams, and other city officials, challenging the city's sanctuary laws that shield illegal immigrants from federal immigration enforcement. The suit, filed in the Eastern District of New York, argues these policies violate the Constitution’s Supremacy Clause by obstructing federal law enforcement efforts.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi stated, “New York City has released thousands of criminals on the streets to commit violent crimes against law-abiding citizens due to sanctuary city policies. If New York City won’t stand up for the safety of its citizens, we will.” The complaint highlights how these policies allow dangerous criminals to roam freely, citing a recent incident where an undocumented migrant with a lengthy criminal record shot an off-duty U.S. Border Patrol agent during an attempted robbery in a city park.
The lawsuit targets specific New York City codes, including a 2011 provision preventing the Department of Correction from honoring U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainers and NYPD rules limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate added, “For too long, New York City has been at the vanguard of interfering with enforcing our immigration laws. Its efforts to thwart federal immigration enforcement end now.”
This legal action follows similar DOJ lawsuits against Los Angeles, New York State, Colorado, Illinois, Rochester, NY, and several New Jersey cities, all aimed at dismantling unconstitutional sanctuary policies. The Trump administration continues its crackdown on cities that prioritize illegal immigrants over public safety, with Louisville recently revoking its sanctuary policy under DOJ pressure.
Mayor Adams’ spokesperson acknowledged the lawsuit, stating the mayor supports reexamining policies to balance safety and cooperation with federal authorities, but the City Council has so far refused to act. The case underscores the ongoing battle to restore law and order by ensuring federal immigration laws are upheld.