Calls for Enhanced Protections for Immigrants in Philadelphia
Advocates in Philadelphia have renewed their calls for stronger protections for immigrant rights following an incident in which a man was apprehended by ICE agents immediately after leaving a criminal justice center. This event has reignited concerns regarding the treatment of immigrants in such sensitive areas.
Lenore Ramos, an organizer with the immigration advocacy group Juntos, reported that ICE agents detained the man as he exited the courtroom, prompting his partner to intervene in a desperate attempt to prevent the arrest.
“She hugged him,” Ramos recounted. “They kissed, and then he was taken away.” This emotional scene was among several distressing stories shared by advocates during a press conference held outside the Criminal Justice Center, underlining their belief that authorities can do more to safeguard immigrants near courthouses.
Ramos further explained, “As he attempted to leave, ICE approached him, and there was a car waiting, almost ready to abduct him.” She described the moment as incredibly bittersweet, emphasizing the urgency of the situation as the partner clung to him amidst the chaos.
Lyla Thompson, director of the Philadelphia Immigration Practice Advocacy Association, detailed alarming statistics surrounding these arrests. “In 2023, there were 13 ICE arrests under the Criminal Justice Center. In 2024, we confirmed only two arrests. However, from January to April 2025, we documented 48 arrests, and since January 2026, we have 17 confirmed cases,” Thompson mentioned.
The bulk of these arrests, according to Thompson, occur just as individuals are exiting the CJC or while they are on the sidewalk. “It’s essentially an ambush,” she stated, describing instances where multiple agents apprehended individuals before they could identify their advocates.
Elena Brunner, an immigration rights organizer with Asian Americans United, shared the story of a 75-year-old immigrant detained by ICE after testifying as a victim in a court case. “This individual had followed all necessary procedures and had an immigration application in court, yet was still arrested,” Brunner noted, highlighting the precarious situation many face.
In response to these incidents, Court of Common Pleas President Judge Nina Wright Padilla emphasized that the sheriff is responsible for security within the courthouse. Earlier this year, Sheriff Rochelle Villar made it clear that her office does not collaborate with ICE and that her deputies maintain authority only within city facilities.
Ramos urged those in positions of power, including judges and the sheriff, to empathize with individuals seeking due process. “We demand that people’s due process is respected and protected, which is not happening under the current circumstances,” she asserted.
Thompson believes there are actionable steps that can be taken to improve the situation. “Sheriff’s offices and courts can enhance their policies through transparency, requiring those arrested to wear uniforms and possess judicial warrants. Establishing safe sidewalks near courthouses would also ensure individuals have appropriate access to justice,” she argued.
The Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office, the Judge’s Office, and ICE have not yet responded to requests for comment regarding these pressing issues.
