New York sheriffs sue over Hochul’s anti-ICE law

More than a dozen New York sheriffs have filed a federal lawsuit challenging the ‘Local Cops, Local Crimes Act,’ a sanctuary state law that took effect Tuesday. The lawsuit, led by Rensselaer County Sheriff Kyle Bourgault, contends the law is unconstitutional and improperly restricts local officials from making independent public safety decisions.

Governor Kathy Hochul defended the legislation, stating it is designed to ensure local police agencies focus on criminal cases rather than assisting federal civil immigration enforcement. Hochul warned that any police department or sheriff’s office that maintains cooperation agreements with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will face legal action from the state.

Local officials, including Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin, have criticized the administration, alleging the law prioritizes criminals over citizens. In Nassau County, executive Bruce Blakeman indicated he would likely join the sheriffs in their legal challenge.