The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against the City of Boston, its Mayor Michelle Wu, and the Boston Police Department, alleging that the city’s sanctuary policies violate federal immigration enforcement protocols. The DOJ claims these policies hinder efforts to detain and deport undocumented immigrants, endangering public safety by allowing criminals to remain in the community.

Attorney General Pam Bondi condemned Boston’s approach, stating, “The City of Boston and its Mayor have been among the worst sanctuary offenders in America – they explicitly enforce policies designed to undermine law enforcement and protect illegal aliens from justice.” She highlighted specific cases, including a Haitian national charged with raping a child in a migrant center and an El Salvadoran immigrant facing 11 counts of child rape. “If Boston won’t protect its citizens from illegal alien crime, this Department of Justice will,” Bondi added.

The lawsuit targets the Boston Trust Act, which restricts local law enforcement from collaborating with federal immigration authorities. The DOJ argues the policy discriminates against federal agencies and undermines lawful immigration operations. It accused Mayor Wu of prioritizing “illegal aliens” over public safety, noting that the city’s refusal to cooperate results in dangerous individuals being released into neighborhoods.

Mayor Wu defended Boston’s policies, calling the lawsuit an unconstitutional attack. “Boston is a thriving community, the safest major city in the country,” she stated. “This administration is intent on attacking our community to advance their own authoritarian agenda.” She emphasized the city’s commitment to upholding its laws and protecting residents’ rights.

The DOJ has previously targeted sanctuary jurisdictions nationwide, including New York, New Jersey, and Los Angeles, as part of a broader effort to enforce federal immigration enforcement. The case against Boston marks the latest in a series of legal actions aimed at challenging local policies that limit collaboration with federal authorities.