SOUTH BEND, Ind. (WSBT) — Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita is accusing two counties of failing to adhere to state immigration policies and has warned of potential legal action if they do not comply.
Rokita sent letters last month to officials in St. Joseph and Lake Counties, demanding information about their immigration-related policies. The letters targeted both local police departments, including the South Bend Police Department, over concerns about their cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
In his communication with the South Bend Police Department, Rokita’s office claimed that the department is violating state law by maintaining policies that prevent officers from working with federal immigration officials. The Attorney General’s office emphasized that failure to comply with state law could lead to legal consequences.
Rokita stated, “If the documents produced show that either police department has unlawful immigration policies on the books, we will take action as warranted to ensure compliance with state law.” The Attorney General specifically cited concerns about policies related to immigration communications, cooperation, and enforcement.
In response, the St. Joseph County Police Department denied the allegations, stating that it has no policy “restricting actions or communications” with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The department also asserted it does not have a “sanctuary city” policy and fully complies with both federal and state laws regarding immigration enforcement.
The City of South Bend also responded, defending its policies. A city spokesperson said, “The City and South Bend Police Department follow all federal and state laws and will cooperate fully with this misguided investigation.”
Rokita has already initiated a lawsuit against the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department for failing to provide its immigration policies, and now he is turning his attention to St. Joseph County and South Bend.
Both counties now face pressure to disclose their policies, as the Attorney General continues to scrutinize local law enforcement’s involvement—or lack thereof—in immigration enforcement.
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