Local Protection, Safety for All
Last updated: February 2, 2026 05:58 pm
Examples of Sanctuary Policies
- Not cooperating with ICE.
Local law enforcement can decline to act as immigration agents. - Not sharing personal information with federal authorities.
This protects residents’ privacy and prevents misuse of local data. - Not detaining people solely based on immigration status.
ICE “detainers” are voluntary requests, not judicial orders. - Ensuring equal access to basic services.
Everyone deserves education, health care, and justice without discrimination.
What Research Shows
A 2017 study by the Center for American Progress found that counties with sanctuary policies have lower overall crime rates than those that routinely cooperate with ICE.
In addition, 45% of Latinos — and two-thirds of undocumented Latinos — reported being less likely to report a crime or cooperate with police out of fear they might be asked about their immigration status.
Myth vs. Reality
Myth: Sanctuary cities protect criminals.
Reality: Sanctuary policies do not prevent law enforcement from doing their jobs.
Crimes are still investigated and prosecuted. These policies simply prevent local governments from acting as immigration agents.
What the Law Says
Federal law does not require cooperation with ICE.
It allows cooperation but does not mandate it. (8 C.F.R. § 287.7(a); INA)
Holding someone without a judicial warrant violates the Fourth Amendment.
(City of Philadelphia v. Sessions; Galarza v. Szalczyk, among others).
The federal government cannot impose unlawful conditions on local funding.
(City of Providence and City of Central Falls v. Attorney General, 1st Circuit).
Conclusion
Sanctuary policies are legal, constitutional, and effective.
They do not block federal immigration enforcement — they simply ensure local governments don’t have to participate.
When local governments focus on protecting and serving their communities instead of policing immigration, everyone benefits.
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