PASADENA, Calif. — A federal judge has directed the Trump administration to halt widespread detentions of individuals believed to be in the United States illegally. This ruling, part of a temporary restraining order issued on Friday, also prevents immigration officials from blocking individuals’ access to legal counsel.
The lawsuit that triggered this directive was brought forth by three immigrants detained at a bus stop in Pasadena while searching for work, alongside two U.S. citizens. Notably, at least one of the citizens presented identification but was still held.
U.S. District Judge Maame Frimpong underscored the temporary nature of her order, which serves as an interim measure while the case advances. She cited substantial evidence indicating that law enforcement officials conducted “roving patrols,” a practice defined as the indiscriminate rounding up of people lacking reasonable suspicion. Such actions, according to Judge Frimpong, violate constitutional protections.
In her ruling, Judge Frimpong clarified that immigration arrests cannot be predicated solely on factors such as race, ethnicity, or language, nor on individuals being in specific locations like bus stops or car washes. The ruling directly counters the recent intensified efforts by the Trump administration to crack down on unauthorized immigration, notably in California, which has often been a focal point of tension for the administration.
The ruling follows significant backlash against immigration raids in Los Angeles, where residents have voiced their opposition through protests. Recently, a raid at a marijuana farm prompted chaotic demonstrations, resulting in over 200 arrests, including minors. Reports from the United Farm Workers indicated that some laborers suffered severe injuries amid the unrest.
Human rights advocates have challenged the government’s tactics, alleging systemic discrimination and violations of constitutional rights. “Everyone, regardless of skin color, language spoken, or work location, is entitled to constitutional safeguards against unlawful detentions,” said Mohammad Tajsar, a senior staff attorney with the ACLU Foundation of Southern California.
In response to the ruling, the Department of Homeland Security asserted its focus on targeting violent offenders as part of a broader strategy to accomplish a daily quota of 3,000 arrests. This initiative is aligned with President Trump’s commitment to execute the largest deportation campaign in U.S. history.
Homeland Security defended its operations by stating that they aim to remove dangerous criminals, including members of gangs and sexual offenders, from communities. The agency responded to the judge’s order by emphasizing the importance of prioritizing public safety.
This directive reflects a continuing tension between federal immigration enforcement policies and local jurisdictions, particularly in states like California that adopt more protective stances toward immigrant communities.
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