Cook County Judge Prohibits ICE Arrests at Courthouses Amid Rising Tensions

Thu Oct 16 2025 01:35:37 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a significant move, the top judge of Cook County has issued an order that prohibits ICE from conducting arrests outside courthouses, aiming to protect individuals attending court from federal immigration enforcement actions.

Cook County's Chief Judge Timothy Evans has signed an order barring ICE from arresting individuals at courthouses, a decision spurred by rising fears among residents regarding detentions that have been increasing since July. This directive is seen as essential in ensuring that litigants and witnesses can access the judicial system without the fear of deportation. Local advocates are applauding this decision, emphasizing its importance for community safety and the administration of justice.

CHICAGO (AP) — In a landmark ruling, Cook County’s top judge has taken a stand against federal immigration enforcement tactics by signing an order that prohibits Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from arresting individuals at courthouses. This measure comes amid increasing federal activity against immigrants in the Chicago area, particularly outside courthouses where ICE has reportedly been making arrests.

The order, which came into effect immediately following its signing on Tuesday night, is designed to protect parties, witnesses, and potential witnesses from civil arrests while attending court proceedings. It restricts not only arrests inside courthouses but also extends to surrounding areas such as parking lots, sidewalks, and entryways.

“The fair administration of justice requires that courts remain open and accessible, and that litigants and witnesses may appear without fear of civil arrest,” the order mandates.

This development has been welcomed by local immigration activists and public defenders, who have expressed concerns over their clients’ hesitations to attend court due to fears of being detained. The public defender’s office has noted a marked increase in ICE’s presence since July, with numerous individuals facing the distressing choice of either missing court and risking arrest warrants or attending and potentially being apprehended by ICE.

Advocacy groups, including domestic violence organizations, had previously petitioned for such an order to ensure that vulnerable individuals can seek justice without the added threat of deportation. This comes in the wake of distressing incidents where individuals attempting to access domestic violence protection were detained by ICE.

In response to ICE's practices, U.S. Department of Homeland Security defended their actions, asserting that arrests at courthouses are consistent with maintaining law and order. They describe the practice as “common sense,” arguing that there are no legal sanctuaries that protect individuals from being held accountable for illegal actions.

However, the Cook County decision reflects a growing national conversation regarding the appropriateness of ICE's operations at courthouses. Legal officials and advocacy groups across the country have similarly criticized these tactics, spurring some state legislatures to introduce bills aimed at restricting ICE's ability to conduct arrests in courthouse settings.

Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch and other state legislators have pledged to draft resolutions condemning federal immigration enforcement methods, citing the chilling impact these practices have on community members seeking legal recourse. “People are afraid to go to court. They’re afraid to comply with subpoenas,” reiterated Speaker Welch, emphasizing the need for courts to be safe spaces for all.

Alongside legislative efforts, local communities have mobilized to monitor ICE activity, fostering collective actions that aim to shield individuals from unexpected detentions. In light of increasing tensions surrounding these issues, community organizations have launched initiatives to support those facing immigration challenges, including funding for legal aid.

As this situation continues to evolve, the effects of Judge Evans' ruling will be closely monitored and evaluated, particularly in relation to broader legislative and community efforts against ICE's perceived overreach.