The Department of Justice has filed a federal lawsuit against Los Angeles city officials, citing “unlawful” sanctuary policies that allegedly obstruct federal immigration enforcement and fueled recent violence.
The Justice Department on Monday filed a lawsuit against the City of Los Angeles, Mayor Karen Bass, and the Los Angeles City Council. The complaint challenges policies enacted after President Donald Trump’s 2024 reelection, claiming they obstruct immigration enforcement and violate federal law.
According to the complaint, Los Angeles’s refusal to cooperate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement contributed to recent public disorder—including riots, looting, and vandalism—that required intervention by both the California National Guard and the United States Marine Corps.
U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli, representing the Central District of California, emphasized the constitutional implications:
Attorney General Bondi directed the Department’s Civil Division to actively review and challenge state and local policies that hinder federal immigration efforts. This suit follows similar legal actions taken against New York and New Jersey.
Read the official DOJ press release here.
Access the full complaint document here.
⚠️ This is a breaking news story. It will be updated as more information becomes available.