Sheriffs Challenge Maryland’s Community Trust Act in Federal Court
Sheriffs across Maryland are filing a lawsuit against the state governor and attorney general regarding the Community Trust Act. On Wednesday morning, 17 out of the state’s 24 sheriffs publicly united in their opposition to the law, supporting a federal lawsuit aimed at blocking its implementation.
Understanding the Community Trust Act
The Community Trust Act mandates that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) must obtain a judicial warrant to detain undocumented immigrants. Furthermore, the law prohibits local authorities from holding these individuals beyond their scheduled release dates, with certain exceptions. Law enforcement is still permitted to notify ICE if a subject is a convicted felon, a registered sex offender, or serving a significant prison sentence.
Dale Wilcox, executive director and general counsel of the Federation for American Immigration Reform, expressed concerns, stating that the law essentially transforms Maryland into a sanctuary state by limiting sheriffs’ cooperation with federal immigration agencies. In response, the office of Governor Wes Moore emphasized its intention to collaborate with federal law enforcement when necessary for public safety, adding that it would not rely on inadequately trained ICE agents to handle immigration enforcement on behalf of local jurisdictions.
Sheriffs’ Concerns About the Legislation
The sheriffs argue that the Community Trust Act places them in a precarious position where they are forced to choose between adhering to state or federal law. They are seeking a federal injunction to suspend the law’s enforcement. Harford County Sheriff Jeff Gahler stated, “This law intentionally ties the hands of our dedicated local officials,” emphasizing the negative impact on public safety that results from such statutory constraints.
Worcester County Sheriff Matt Crisafulli echoed this sentiment, asserting that the issue transcends partisan politics and is fundamentally about ensuring public safety. They believe that the law is unconstitutional, especially given it is set to take effect without the governor’s signature. Both the governor and attorney general have raised concerns regarding its implementation in recent statements.
Voices from the Community
Many sheriffs expressed dismay at the perceived abandonment of Maryland residents by the state government. Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis lamented that public safety is being compromised by partisan politics. He pointed out the ramifications of the law, which could force law enforcement to release individuals charged with serious crimes, including second-degree rape and drug trafficking, once their prison sentences are served or their cases adjudicated.
Families affected by violent crime perpetrated by illegally residing individuals, known as the Angel Families, have rallied in support of the sheriffs. This includes Patti Morin, whose daughter Rachel was murdered in 2023 by an undocumented immigrant. Morin shared her tragic story to highlight the potential consequences of the law.
Reactions from Advocacy Groups
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Maryland, represented by director of public policy Yanet Amanuel, released a statement praising the Community Trust Act for fostering safer communities through dignity rather than targeting individuals based on their immigration status. Amanuel emphasized the law’s role in moderating immigration enforcement, which often disproportionately affects marginalized communities.
Monica Brooks, regional president of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), also issued a supportive statement, linking the law to broader themes of racial injustice. She noted the collaborative efforts of various advocacy groups in resisting harmful immigration policies, underscoring the importance of viewing all Maryland residents as deserving of dignity and respect.
