Cook County Judge Orders No ICE Arrests at Courthouses

Thu Oct 16 2025 02:48:06 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a significant ruling, Cook County's Chief Judge has implemented a ban on ICE arrests occurring in and around courthouses, aiming to ensure that residents can attend court without fear of detention.

Cook County Chief Judge Timothy Evans has signed a pivotal order stopping U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from making arrests at courthouses. This decision comes as a response to heightened tensions and fears among residents, especially in light of recent immigration crackdowns. The ruling aims to ensure the fair administration of justice, allowing people to attend court proceedings without the imminent threat of civil arrest. The order has been backed by local immigration advocates who argue that ICE presence outside courthouses has deterred individuals from seeking legal recourse. Critics of ICE's courthouse tactics assert that similar actions have surged nationwide, calling for legislative measures to provide additional protections.

CHICAGO — Cook County's top judge has issued an order prohibiting ICE from arresting individuals at courthouses, crucially aimed at protecting residents amidst ongoing federal immigration efforts.

Federal agents have frequently stationed outside courthouses, executing arrests and leading to significant community unrest and protests. The order, effective immediately, prevents any civil arrest of 'parties, witnesses, or potential witnesses' while they are present at court proceedings, encompassing areas such as parking lots, sidewalks, and entryways.

Judge Timothy Evans emphasized the importance of maintaining accessible courts for everyone, stating in the order: The fair administration of justice requires that courts remain open and accessible, and that litigants and witnesses may appear without fear of civil arrest. Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security defended the arrests at courthouses, calling them essential for law enforcement.

Immigration Advocates Raise Concerns

Local immigration advocates, including the public defender’s office, voiced concerns that ICE snatch-and-grab tactics outside courthouses have deterred clients from attending necessary court hearings. Since July, representatives confirmed at least a dozen immigration arrests had occurred near county courthouses, prompting the need for this protective order.

Many clients face a troubling choice: miss court and risk a warrant, or show up and be arrested by ICE, stated Cruz Rodriguez, an assistant public defender. This sentiment echoed through community organizations advocating for justice and safety within the judicial system.

Wider Patterns of Enforcement

The maneuvers executed by ICE at courthouses in Chicago reflect a national trend of increased immigration enforcement tactics, condemned by legal organizations and judicial experts. These practices have incited various lawsuits and political responses at state levels, reflecting significant pushback against such aggressive federal measures.

Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch publicly decried these federal tactics and announced intentions for his party to draft resolutions opposing the immigration crackdown. Emphasizing the threat of fear in legal compliance, he stated, We can’t allow that. These should be safe spaces. Governor JB Pritzker has also raised concerns over reported inappropriate actions by federal agents, insisting that protections for journalists and peaceful protests need reassertion.

Community efforts to combat ICE activities are surging, with local groups increasing vigilance to document federal interactions with residents. Initiatives such as “Whistlemania” have emerged, aiming to equip individuals with resources to foster community awareness and solidarity against immigration enforcement activities.