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4th Circuit Court upholds block on ICE enforcement at churches
The U.S. 4th Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld an injunction that prevents federal immigration officials from conducting enforcement actions at or near houses of worship. In a 2-1 ruling, the court maintained a previous decision from a Maryland federal judge, finding that the government's policy likely violated the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.
The ruling stems from a challenge to a 2025 policy by the Trump administration that rescinded protections for churches and schools as sensitive locations. A coalition of religious groups, including the Philadelphia Yearly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends, argued that the policy caused fear among parishioners and led to declining church attendance.
While the plaintiffs argue the policy unlawfully disrupts sacred spaces, a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security stated that ICE targets criminals rather than places of worship. The department maintained that law enforcement should not have its hands tied and should be able to act to protect public safety if a dangerous individual seeks refuge in a place of worship.
Entities
Department of Homeland Security · Immigration and Customs Enforcement · Philadelphia Yearly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends · Trump administration · U.S. 4th Circuit Court of Appeals
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The government likely violated the Religious Freedom Restoration Act in its immigration enforcement policy. offthepress.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] ICE targets criminals rather than places of worship. www.ntd.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The 4th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld an injunction preventing ICE from conducting enforcement actions at or near houses of worship. offthepress.com · www.ntd.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The policy rescinded by the Trump administration lacked meaningful limitations or safeguards. www.ntd.com