State of Indiana Attorney General - News Release

*Attorney General Todd Rokita remains vigilant against ‘sanctuary cities’ by warning local officials not to ignore state laws* 

Attorney General Todd Rokita cautioned local officials in Lake and St. Joseph counties that he will pursue legal action against them after November 8 if they refuse to follow state laws that prohibit local entities from restricting immigration enforcement activities and communications with federal immigration authorities. 

“Illegal aliens coming across our unprotected Southern border for the last four years have caused a jump in crime, fentanyl overdoses, human trafficking, and an increased financial burden on state and local programs,” Attorney General Rokita said. “Hardworking Hoosiers are sick and tired of paying the price for this left-wing nonsense, and our office will not back down from enforcing state law.” 

A "sanctuary city" is a local unit of government that has implemented a policy that deliberately and intentionally restricts and obstructs the enforcement of federal immigration laws. 

The Indiana General Assembly passed a law this year authorizing the attorney general to file lawsuits against any Indiana colleges, universities, or units of local government that do not comply with the Indiana ban on sanctuary cities. 

Attorney General Rokita has heard from constituents about the problems caused by mass migration into areas like Lake and St. Joseph counties. His efforts to combat sanctuary cities are an important way to address these problems. 

“Everyone should have the freedom and opportunity to succeed and attain a better life,” Attorney General Rokita said. “We welcome migrants to the United States who show they are thankful to be here by entering our country legally and following our laws. Simply put, if you do not follow our laws, you should not be allowed to stay.” 

Attorney General Rokita has sent letters to officials in Lake and St. Joseph counties warning them of impending legal action if they do not come into compliance with Indiana law. 

Attorney General Rokita also sent letters to officials in the cities of East Chicago, West Lafayette and Monroe County. East Chicago and West Lafayette changed their policy to comply with state law. Our office is pursuing legal action in court against Monroe County. 

We continue to evaluate other local governments and will take action as warranted to ensure compliance with state law.   

The letters sent to Lake County and St. Joseph County officials are attached.  

A headshot of Attorney General Rokita is available online [ [link removed] ].

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* 2024.10.9 - Sanctuary Enforcement - SJCPD Demand Letter.pdf [ [link removed] ]
* 2024.10.9 - Sanctuary Enforcement - LCSD Demand Letter.pdf [ [link removed] ]

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