The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a directive calling on cities and counties labeled as ‘sanctuary jurisdictions’ to comply with federal immigration laws.
In a recent news release, DHS unveiled a list that includes 20 counties and two cities in Minnesota.
These jurisdictions are said to be practicing policies that contradict federal immigration regulations, prompting DHS to take formal action.
The identified Minnesota sanctuaries are:
– The City of Minneapolis
– The City of St. Paul
– Anoka County
– Carver County
– Cottonwood County
– Goodhue County
– Hennepin County
– Le Sueur County
– Lincoln County
– Lyon County
– Martin County
– Nicollet County
– Nobles County
– Otter Tail County
– Pipestone County
– Ramsey County
– Scott County
– Stearns County
– Steele County
– Todd County
– Watonwan County
– Wright County
Additionally, the state of Minnesota itself has been identified as a ‘state sanctuary jurisdiction.’
Officials from DHS explained that the list emerged from analyses of compliance with federal law enforcement, restrictions on information sharing, and protections afforded to undocumented immigrants.
This action aligns with Executive Order 14287, which emphasizes the necessity for local jurisdictions to work collaboratively with federal immigration enforcement.
DHS officials stated, ‘Sanctuary jurisdictions, including cities, counties, and states that are deliberately and shamefully obstructing the enforcement of federal immigration laws, endanger American communities.’
The agency’s announcement also underscores concerns that sanctuary cities shield dangerous criminal aliens from facing justice, ultimately jeopardizing public safety.
In a stark message, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem cautioned those living in the country illegally, recommending they leave and utilize the U.S. Customs and Border Protection app if they wish to return in the future.
This recent development follows a prior ruling by a federal judge that blocked the Trump administration from withholding funds from sanctuary cities earlier in April.
DHS indicated that the compiled list is subject to review and revisions, underscoring its dynamic nature and the necessity for ongoing updates.
Stearns County’s response to being included in the DHS list has reflected significant surprise.
Sheriff Steve Soyka commented on the county officials’ lack of formal notification regarding this designation.
He emphasized that Stearns County has consistently maintained transparent communication with ICE and adhered to federal requirements throughout the years.
‘What we currently do in our jail is what we have done for the past 20 years with no issues,’ he stated in a news release.
Sheriff Soyka also mentioned that local ICE officials have historically been satisfied with the county’s handling of immigration matters, even commending staff during their last visit.
Without formal directives from DHS, Stearns County intends to uphold its existing practices, asserting that they have been in alignment with ICE expectations historically.
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