The state of Illinois has released 1,768 undocumented immigrants with criminal convictions back into communities across the state this year, despite federal requests to transfer them to immigration authorities, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced Sunday.
The released individuals had been convicted of serious crimes ranging from homicide and assault to burglary, robbery, drug trafficking, weapons violations, and sexual offenses, according to federal immigration officials. The releases occurred after Illinois correctional facilities declined to honor Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainer requests.
Under the current administration of Governor J.B. Pritzker, Illinois correctional facilities have been directed not to comply with federal immigration detainer requests. These detainers are formal requests from ICE asking local law enforcement agencies to hold individuals in custody for up to 48 hours beyond their scheduled release date, allowing federal agents time to assume custody for potential deportation proceedings.
The Department of Homeland Security’s announcement highlights an ongoing tension between federal immigration enforcement priorities and state-level policies in sanctuary jurisdictions. Illinois has positioned itself as a sanctuary state, limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities in various circumstances.
The revelation comes as immigration policy remains a contentious issue across the United States, with federal authorities arguing that non-cooperation policies compromise public safety by allowing individuals with criminal histories to remain in communities rather than face deportation proceedings.
State officials have previously defended their approach, arguing that increased cooperation with federal immigration authorities can discourage immigrant communities from reporting crimes or cooperating with local law enforcement investigations due to fear of deportation.
The 1,768 releases represent a significant number of cases where state and federal authorities have been at odds over custody transfers. The variety and severity of the crimes involved in these cases are likely to intensify debates over sanctuary policies and their impact on community safety.
This development adds another layer to the complex relationship between state and federal authorities on immigration enforcement, particularly as the incoming administration has signaled intentions to strengthen deportation efforts and challenge non-cooperation policies in sanctuary jurisdictions.
