Milwaukee leaders call for protective policies for immigrants after ICE arrests at courthouse

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Local leaders across Milwaukee say there is a need for local policies to protect immigrants after two individuals were arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) inside the Milwaukee County Courthouse last week.

Milwaukee County supervisors, attorneys, nonprofit and religious leaders gathered in the county courthouse united behind one goal Tuesday afternoon, April 8. 

“If they are not safe for everyone, then they’re not safe for anyone,” said Bishop Paul Erickson with the Greater Milwaukee Synod ECLA.

On Friday, local leaders say ICE agents apprehended two individuals inside the Milwaukee County Courthouse. Attorneys with Forward Latino says the incident is being investigated by the Milwaukee County chief judge and they believe the ICE agents acted as independent authorities.

“Last Friday we were made aware that representatives from the U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement had apprehended two individuals within the perceived safety of the Milwaukee County Courthouse complex,” said Forward Latino National President Darryl Morin.

Local officials say under previous administrations, ICE has been discouraged from going into courthouses and apprehending people. Local leaders say the incident was an unprecedented act they believe will prevent people from accessing the Milwaukee County Courthouse for resources and services.

“The courthouse is supposed to be a safe place for people to come and be able to work with the systems that have been implemented,” said Milwaukee County Supervisor Juan Miguel Martinez. 

Attorneys at Tuesday’s news conference, leaders say previously if a crime was committed there would be a decision made at the local level. After that, then the federal government could take action, possibly, including deportation.

“This makes no sense to have a random nature now,” said Craig Mastantuono, attorney.

Speakers at Tuesday’s event say what happened Friday skips due process.

“Any actions by ICE in the register of deeds office will not be permitted unless an ICE agent has a signed warrant by a federal judge otherwise, they are not welcome in my office nor is anyone else unless they are there to conduct business under the Wisconsin statutes,” said Milwaukee County Register of Deeds Israel Ramón.

That’s why local leaders say they’re working on a plan to keep the Milwaukee County Courthouse a protected space.

“Make sure we have a coordinated and comprehensive plan on how to keep people safe as they enter our courthouse,” said Milwaukee County Supervisor Caroline Gomez-Tom.

Local leaders will meet with the judiciary committee on Tuesday, April 15 to discuss any potential legislation.