Judge Criticizes ICE for Ignoring Court Orders in Minnesota
A federal judge has criticized the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for repeatedly disregarding court orders amid the Trump administration’s intensified immigration enforcement efforts. This critique was not from Minnesota’s Democratic officials but from Chief U.S. District Judge Patrick Schiltz, known for his conservative background.
Judge Schiltz, after consulting other judges, highlighted nearly 100 instances since January 1 where ICE failed to adhere to court mandates in 74 cases. These involved individuals arrested during the Operation Metro Surge seeking various forms of legal relief. Schiltz stated that the reported number of violations might be significantly lower than the actual figure. “This list should give pause to anyone — no matter his or her political beliefs — who cares about the rule of law,” he wrote.
Tricia McLaughlin, representing the Homeland Security Department, dismissed Schiltz’s remarks as those of an “activist judge,” asserting that their enforcement actions would not be hindered by critics from either the judiciary or public protests. Meanwhile, Deputy White House Chief of Staff Stephen Miller criticized the judge’s stance on social media, calling it “judicial sabotage of democracy.”
Judge Schiltz is not alone in his censure of federal immigration practices. U.S. District Judge Kate Menendez previously barred the use of tear gas and pepper spray against peaceful Minnesota protesters, although this order was temporarily stayed pending appeal. In a similar vein, a Chicago federal judge restricted force use by immigration officers, accusing a Border Patrol commander of providing false testimony regarding threats. However, an appeals court froze this ruling, and the related lawsuit was later withdrawn as tensions decreased.
Appointed by Republican President George W. Bush, Judge Schiltz has an extensive legal background, including clerking for Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia. His actions, according to former federal prosecutor Mark Osler, reflect his strong commitment to the rule of law and governmental accountability.
In an unusual move, Schiltz summoned ICE’s acting director, Todd Lyons, to explain the agency’s non-compliance with court orders, potentially facing contempt charges. This hearing was later canceled when the immigrant involved was released. Schiltz has acknowledged donations to the Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota and Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid, advocating for legal support for low-income individuals.
