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Today the Governor announced a significant shift in policy to address concerns about ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) activity in Connecticut state courthouses. Effective immediately, the Judicial Branch has adopted the following changes:
1. Ban on Arrests Without Judicial Authorization
Law enforcement, including ICE, may no longer arrest individuals in the public areas of state courthouses unless they have a judicial warrant or an order signed by a judicial officer. This ensures that federal immigration enforcement cannot detain people at court appearances, especially in civil or family matters, without judicial oversight. The goal is to protect access to justice without fear of detention.
2. Ban on Face Covering Masks by Law Enforcement
Law enforcement officers are prohibited from wearing masks or coverings that obscure their identity while inside courthouses, except for medical reasons and only with prior authorization from a judicial authority. This promotes transparency and accountability in courthouse enforcement activities.
Why This Matters
- For our immigrant community: Courthouses remain safer, neutral spaces where undocumented individuals can seek justice without fear of arrest.
- For law enforcement: Agencies must comply with new rules and seek judicial approval before acting in courthouses.
- For the judiciary: The courts are asserting their authority over courthouse operations and reinforcing their role in ensuring fairness and access to justice.
At its core, this reform reflects our shared belief that justice is blind, and that the foundation of our country was the shared belief in liberty and justice for all. As always, these changes are the result of your calls, emails, and testimony at public hearings. Please continue to share your views and to make your voices heard.
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