Former acting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Director John Sandweg recently discussed the criteria for targeting cities for enforcement operations during an interview. Serving under President Barack Obama from 2013 to 2014, Sandweg highlighted the influence of immigrant populations and sanctuary policies on ICE’s decision-making process.
Key Criteria for Targeting Cities
- Immigrant Population: A significant factor is the size of the immigrant population within a city.
- Sanctuary Policies: The presence of sanctuary policies that shield illegal aliens from law enforcement also plays a critical role.
Sandweg clarified that these criteria are not politically motivated, stating that understanding where ICE can achieve effective enforcement is paramount. In 2025, cities like Minneapolis, Los Angeles, Portland, and Chicago were selected for intensified operations due to their large immigrant communities and sanctuary regulations.
Operational Challenges in Sanctuary Cities
ICE traditionally focuses on larger urban centers because these areas tend to have higher density populations and possibly more criminal activity. Sandweg mentioned that not all sanctuary policies are equal. He stated, “ICE is really good at getting people in prisons and jails,” emphasizing that visibility on individuals booked into the system is available.
- Some jurisdictions collaborate with ICE for arresting illegal immigrants with serious offenses.
- Others refuse ICE’s detainer requests, complicating enforcement efforts.
This resistance can prompt ICE to reevaluate its strategy and allocate more resources to jurisdictions with stringent sanctuary policies. Sandweg noted the frustration of dealing with these challenges, particularly when it involves apprehending individuals with serious criminal backgrounds who are released back into the community.
Future of ICE Operations
Looking ahead, Sandweg anticipates that crackdowns in these urban environments are only the beginning. As immigrant populations continue to grow, and as certain cities maintain their sanctuary statuses, ICE will likely adapt its methods to maximize operational efficiency. This could result in a more pronounced presence in cities resistant to cooperation.
In summary, the targeting of cities for ICE enforcement hinges on various factors, particularly the presence of a significant immigrant population combined with municipal sanctuary policies. As these dynamics evolve, the agency is poised to adjust its enforcement strategies accordingly.
