MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Milwaukee County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) says there were two arrests by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel in the Milwaukee County Courthouse complex recently.

MCSO says they did not participate in either arrests. They say they were made aware of ICE's intention to take an individual into custody shortly before the first arrest happened. MCSO says they were not given advance notice about the second arrest, which took place in the Milwaukee County Public Safety Building.

"Further, MCSO understands that immigration enforcement is a hot button issue, but it is not uncommon for local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to search available databases for upcoming court hearings of individuals they are seeking," said MCSO in a statement, in part. 

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley issued a statement about the arrests:

"The Milwaukee County Courthouse stands as a cornerstone of justice where residents come to seek information, resources, and fair participation in the legal process. An attack on this safe, community-serving space undermines public trust, breeds fear among citizens and staff, and disrupts the due process essential to our courts. As local leaders, we have a duty to protect these institutions, uphold accessible services, and safeguard every individual’s constitutional right to engage fully in the judicial process. The last thing we want is to interfere with the legal process or sow doubt in those summoned to the courthouse about whether or not they will receive fair, impartial justice. I will continue working with our partners across the county and state to maintain safety and justice for all.”

City leaders are also releasing statements about the arrests. Alderman José G. Pérez, Alderperson JoCasta Zamarripa and Alderwoman Marina Dimitrijevic released the following statement: 

"It is deeply concerning to learn that ICE agents made an arrest yesterday inside the Safety Building, right next to the Milwaukee County Courthouse. As best we can determine, given the manner in which this individual was detained (not directed by the court), that it was not related to the matter in which he appeared.

We strongly believe that residents need to be able to access all government facilities (without fear!) to receive services and to have due process. Whether it is the courts/judicial system, legislative bodies, or the executive branch, our residents should be able to freely access all venues without restrictions or any kind of implied threat of detention or arrest.

A city where all people can access services at all times is a safer city."