Somerville and Chelsea, two Massachusetts sanctuary cities, have filed a lawsuit against the federal government, claiming the Trump administration's attempts to coerce them into participating in deportation efforts violate constitutional rights. They argue that these 'heavy-handed tactics' are an overreach and disrupt public safety by instilling fear in immigrant communities, discouraging cooperation with local law enforcement. The cities contend that their sanctuary policies are essential for fostering trust between residents and police, thereby enhancing public safety. The lawsuit is backed by Lawyers for Civil Rights and responds to threats from federal officials regarding funding cuts.
The lawsuit claims these tactics undermine public safety, as they discourage residents from cooperating with law enforcement due to fears over their immigration status.
Chelsea City Manager Fidel Maltez stressed that 'public safety is the top priority' which cannot coexist with residents fearing to report crimes.
Somerville Mayor Katjana Ballantyne stated that their community is safer when the police prioritize crime prevention over federal immigration enforcement.
The lawsuit filed by Lawyers for Civil Rights seeks to block what the plaintiffs describe as an 'illegal campaign of bullying and intimidation' by the federal government.
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