Federal Judge Limits ICE Arrests in Manhattan Immigration Courtrooms
A federal judge has predominantly restricted U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from conducting civilian immigration arrests in several Manhattan immigration courtrooms. This decision comes after government attorneys admitted to “material factual errors” in their defense of the policy during court proceedings.
U.S. District Judge P. Kevin Castel’s ruling mandates that ICE agents revert to the more restrictive arrest guidelines established under the Biden administration while the extensive legal battle continues. This ruling represents a notable shift from Castel’s earlier decision in early 2025, when he declined to suspend the original policy.
In March, attorneys from the Justice Department informed the court of the need to amend previous claims regarding a May 2025 ICE enforcement memorandum, clarifying that it did not apply to immigration courts. The admission from the government indicated that this guidance “does not and has never been applied” to such courts, which prompted Judge Castel’s review of the prior ruling to rectify clear inconsistencies and prevent injustices.
Lawsuit Emphasizes the Dangers of Current Enforcement Policies
Advocacy groups for immigrants, who initiated the lawsuit, argue that enforcement policies from the Trump administration effectively transformed mandatory immigration hearings into operations for immediate arrests, with individuals being detained by ICE agents right after their court appearances.
Judge Castel noted that the plaintiffs are likely to succeed in proving that the administration acted arbitrarily in rescinding a 2021 ICE policy that limited courtroom arrests. This change occurred without adequately detailing how the new guidelines would be applicable in immigration courts.
Conditions for ICE Enforcement Remain
It’s important to highlight that the ruling does not entirely bar ICE from making arrests in court. The agency retains the authority to carry out enforcement actions in cases involving national security threats, imminent violence, active pursuit scenarios, or concerning criminal evidence.
Significance of the Ruling for Noncitizen New Yorkers
“This ruling marks a significant win for noncitizen New Yorkers who wish to attend immigration court proceedings without fear,” stated Amy Belsher, director of immigrant rights litigation at the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU). The decision reflects growing concerns about the impacts of enforcement practices on immigrant communities and individuals navigating the legal system.
Fox News Digital reached out to the Department of Homeland Security and ICE for statements regarding this ruling; however, no immediate response was received.
