INDIANAPOLIS— Attorney General Todd Rokita has issued a strong warning to the Indianapolis City-County Council, threatening legal action if the council uses its budget authority to restrict the Marion County Sheriff’s Office from cooperating with federal immigration authorities.

The official sent a letter this week stating that using budget cuts to block the sheriff’s cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) would be a direct violation of Indiana law.

The letter argues that such a move would “endanger Indianapolis residents” and “shield illegal aliens, including those who commit crimes.”

The warning comes after a September 3 budget hearing where some council members reportedly criticized the sheriff’s office for its assistance with federal immigration enforcement.

See Full Page