Philadelphia challenges DOJ over immigration detainer ordinance

Philadelphia officials have asked a federal judge to dismiss a Department of Justice challenge to a city ordinance that prohibits city agencies and employees from honoring immigration detainers.

Attorneys representing Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, District Attorney Larry Krasner, and former City Solicitor Renee Garcia argued that the federal government cannot conscript city employees to assist with federal immigration enforcement. The city's motion contends that the Trump administration's position violates the Tenth Amendment, which prevents the federal government from commandeering state and local governments to enforce federal laws. The filing maintains that there is no federal law mandating that local officials assist with immigration enforcement.