A federal judge in Minnesota has accused the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) of being a serial violator of court orders, leading to renewed discussions about immigration enforcement and judicial accountability. Chief U.S. District Judge Patrick Schiltz, with a conservative background, remarked that ICE operates as if it is above the law following nearly 100 instances where the agency has neglected court orders.
ICE is not a law unto itself, Judge Schiltz stated, highlighting the agency's failure to comply with directives in cases related to Operation Metro Surge, which saw immigrants detained and subsequently contesting their arrests in court. He pointed out that these instances are likely a significant undercount.
Judge Schiltz's comments coincide with the actions of other judges across the nation, who have also expressed concerns over excessive force used by immigration officers. Recently, U.S. District Judge Kate Menendez prohibited the use of tear gas and pepper spray against protesting demonstrators in Minnesota, although an appeal has paused the ruling.
Schiltz threatened ICE’s acting director with contempt for ignoring court directives, a decision that was met with criticism from the Department of Homeland Security labeling him an 'activist judge.' However, after the release of an immigrant in the case, he canceled the contempt hearing.
Schiltz's commitment to maintaining the rule of law and accountability for government officials has been praised by legal experts, as they assert that actions like these are essential in upholding judicial authority. He has previously acknowledged his support for legal aid for immigrants, reflecting his personal beliefs about access to justice.
