A controversy is brewing within the New Jersey State Police regarding compliance with federal arrest warrants, fueled by a directive that limits cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The issue has become a central point of contention in the state’s gubernatorial election.
Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli brought attention to the situation after receiving an email circulated within the State Police. This communication, reportedly sent by Colonel Patrick Callahan, indicated that officers are not legally obligated to enforce “Outstanding Administrative Warrants of Removal from the United States,” citing a recent addition of 27,000 warrants to the National Crime Information Center.
Ciattarelli stated, “The fact that my campaign received this email is evidence that brave and courageous law enforcement officers throughout New Jersey are angry about being handcuffed by liberal Democrat policies in Trenton, making our communities less safe.” He attributed the policy to Governor Phil Murphy, Attorney General Platkin, and the Democratic-controlled legislature.
The directive stems from the state’s “Immigrant Trust Directive,” which restricts cooperation with federal immigration authorities unless the sole purpose is to enforce federal civil immigration law. According to Attorney General Matt Platkin, this policy allows New Jersey police officers to focus on “pressing public safety issues like violent crime, gun violence, and drug trafficking,” while ensuring that victims of crime and witnesses feel safe reporting incidents regardless of their immigration status.
Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
- The Email: An internal NJSP email instructed officers not to comply with federal administrative removal warrants.
- Ciattarelli’s Criticism: The Republican candidate blames Democratic policies and leadership for creating an environment where law enforcement is restricted.
- Immigrant Trust Directive: This state policy limits cooperation with ICE unless the purpose is solely to enforce federal immigration laws.
- Attorney General’s Stance: Platkin asserts the directive prioritizes public safety and allows victims to come forward without fear of deportation.
The situation has also exposed divisions within the Democratic party. During a recent debate, Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop and Representative Josh Gottheimer clashed over the Laken Riley Act, a bipartisan federal law aimed at expanding circumstances for transferring individuals into Department of Homeland Security custody. Fulop characterized the act as “a very dangerous piece of legislation.”
Adding fuel to the fire, Governor Murphy recently disclosed that he and his wife are providing housing for an individual whose immigration status is pending, stating, “And good luck to the feds coming in to try to get her.” This action has drawn criticism from Republican circles and intensified scrutiny of New Jersey’s immigration policies.
Attorney General Platkin defended the Immigrant Trust Directive, emphasizing its support by law enforcement leaders. He stated, “There is no ‘sanctuary’ for criminals in New Jersey.”
Ciattarelli has pledged to partner with the Trump Administration to “fix our immigration system and restore law and order” if elected governor.
Both Murphy’s office and DHS declined to comment at the time of publication.
