A federal judge prohibited ICE agents from making arrests inside and around immigration court buildings in New York City [1].
The ruling aims to prevent the detention of individuals attending their own legal proceedings. By creating a protected zone, the court intends to ensure that immigrants can access legal representation and hearings without the immediate risk of apprehension.
The order applies specifically to three immigration court buildings located in Manhattan [2]. According to court documents, the prohibition extends to the interior of the facilities and the immediate surrounding areas [1]. This restriction prevents agents from conducting sweeps or targeted arrests as people enter or exit the premises.
Legal officials said the order was issued to protect individuals appearing in immigration proceedings from the risk of detention [3]. The judge said that such arrests could discourage people from complying with court dates, which would undermine the legal process.
The ruling was issued on May 18, 2026 [4]. While some reports indicated the order was finalized on a Monday, the court record identifies May 18 as the effective date [4].
This measure is designed to preserve the integrity of the courts [3]. By removing the threat of immediate arrest, the judiciary seeks to maintain a reliable system where individuals can present their cases before an immigration judge without fear of being detained upon arrival.
“A federal judge prohibited ICE agents from making arrests inside and around immigration court buildings in New York City.”
This ruling establishes a legal sanctuary around judicial facilities, shifting the balance of power between federal enforcement and the judiciary. By prioritizing court access over immediate deportation enforcement, the court is asserting that the administration of justice requires a level of security for the defendant that outweighs the operational goals of ICE in these specific zones.
