Story perspectives

ICE Director Slams Sanctuary Policies Amid Rising Arrests

1/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons criticized sanctuary policies, saying they hinder federal enforcement and raise officer risks.
He said 70% of illegal immigrants arrested last year had criminal histories.
In Minneapolis, Operation Metro Surge has led to over 2,000 arrests despite opposition, after the fatal shooting of Renee Good during an ICE encounter, while in Los Angeles, Mayor Karen Bass condemned ICE and the White House defended it.

History

Historical Context

The sanctuary city movement began in the 1980s, advocating for protections against federal immigration enforcement, particularly for Central American refugees. In 2017, President Trump intensified efforts against these cities, signing Executive Order 13768 to defund jurisdictions that did not comply with immigration laws. This ongoing conflict reflects the broader tension between local governance and federal immigration policy, impacting community relations and future legislation.

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Story summary

Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons criticized sanctuary policies, saying they hinder federal enforcement and raise officer risks.
He said 70% of illegal immigrants arrested last year had criminal histories.
In Minneapolis, Operation Metro Surge has led to over 2,000 arrests despite opposition, after the fatal shooting of Renee Good during an ICE encounter, while in Los Angeles, Mayor Karen Bass condemned ICE and the White House defended it.

1 / 2