Philadelphia Leaders Push Back Against Questionable ICE Directives: What This Means for Immigrants in PA, NJ, and NY

Philadelphia DA Larry Krasner and Lawmakers Challenge ICE Enforcement

Philadelphia has long been a city that upholds immigrant protections while balancing law enforcement responsibilities. However, recent ICE raids in Pennsylvania have sparked controversy, leading Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner and state lawmakers to publicly denounce what they call “legally dubious” directives from federal immigration authorities.

During a press conference in January 2025, Krasner made it clear that Philadelphia will not tolerate overreach by federal immigration enforcement, particularly when it results in the detainment of individuals without due process. This statement came in response to a recent ICE raid at a Philadelphia car wash, which resulted in the detention of seven individuals.

Krasner, alongside State Senator Sharif Street, warned that if ICE agents overstep legal boundaries, they could face prosecution in Philadelphia. This hardline stance has resonated with immigration advocates and community leaders across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, as it signals a commitment to protecting due process rights for immigrants.

Understanding the Legal Controversy Around ICE’s Actions

ICE, or U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, is responsible for enforcing immigration laws, including detaining undocumented individuals and removing those without legal status. However, there are clear constitutional limits to how ICE conducts enforcement actions, particularly in sanctuary cities like Philadelphia and New York. The recent Philadelphia car wash raid has become a flashpoint in the broader discussion on immigration enforcement in Pennsylvania and neighboring states like New Jersey and New York, where sanctuary policies have been in place for years.

Krasner emphasized that his office is willing to hold ICE agents accountable if they violate constitutional rights. His stance echoes broader trends in New Jersey immigration policy, where lawmakers have pushed back against cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. Similarly, New York City’s sanctuary laws prohibit local police from assisting in most ICE deportation efforts unless a judicial warrant is issued.

Philadelphia’s Commitment to Sanctuary Policies

• Philadelphia remains a sanctuary city, meaning local law enforcement does not actively assist ICE in detaining undocumented individuals.

• Immigrants in Philadelphia should not be detained by local police solely for their immigration status unless ICE provides proper legal documentation.

New Jersey’s Limits on ICE Cooperation

• New Jersey has statewide restrictions on law enforcement collaboration with ICE, particularly regarding detainers and warrantless arrests.

• Immigrants in New Jersey should be aware that local police generally cannot hand them over to ICE without a judicial warrant.

New York’s Strong Sanctuary Policies

• New York City law prohibits local law enforcement from assisting ICE detainers, with limited exceptions for individuals convicted of serious crimes.

• Immigrants should always request legal representation before speaking to ICE agents or signing any documents related to their immigration status.

Steps Immigrants Can Take to Protect Their Rights

In light of recent ICE activity in Pennsylvania, immigrants should take proactive steps to protect themselves:

✅ Know Your Rights – You have the right to remain silent and refuse entry to ICE agents without a warrant signed by a judge.

✅ Have a Safety Plan – If you or a loved one is undocumented, prepare emergency contacts and discuss options with an immigration attorney.

✅ Seek Legal Assistance – If you face immigration enforcement, speak with a qualified immigration attorney in PA, NJ, or NY before signing anything or agreeing to voluntary departure.

✅ Stay Informed – Follow local immigration policies in Philadelphia, New Jersey, and New York to understand how changing laws may impact your case.

The pushback from Philadelphia leaders reflects broader tensions between federal immigration enforcement and local governments in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. As more cities adopt pro-immigrant policies, the question remains: how far can ICE go before facing legal consequences? For now, immigrants in these states should remain informed, seek legal counsel, and exercise their constitutional rights. If you or someone you know has been affected by recent ICE enforcement actions, speaking with a trusted immigration attorney in PA, NJ, or NY can make all the difference.

Would you like help with an immigration case? Contact our firm today for expert legal guidance tailored to your situation.