Boston Stands by Trust Act, Declines 57 ICE Requests

Boston police chose community relationships over cooperation with federal immigration authorities last year, declining all 57 detainer requests from ICE.

Police Commissioner Michael Cox reported the decision in a January letter to city officials. The department followed the Boston Trust Act, a local sanctuary law designed to build trust with immigrant communities.

ICE detainer requests ask local police to hold individuals beyond their release date or notify federal agents before release. The requests typically target people in custody who federal authorities believe are eligible for deportation.

Boston's approach represents a sharp increase in detainer requests compared to 2024, when ICE filed just 15 requests. The city declined those as well.

Commissioner Cox emphasized the department's priorities in his letter. "Boston's immigrant communities should feel safe in reporting crime and quality of life issues to the Department," he wrote.

The Trust Act prevents Boston police from detaining people solely because ICE has filed a request. In December, the city council reaffirmed its support for the policy.

The Ripple Effect

Boston's commitment reflects a broader movement across American cities working to balance federal immigration enforcement with local community needs. When immigrants feel safe reporting crimes or cooperating with police, everyone benefits from stronger public safety partnerships.

The policy helps families access essential services without fear. Parents can take children to school, workers can report wage theft, and victims can seek help from police regardless of immigration status.

City leaders believe these protections strengthen Boston's diverse neighborhoods. The approach treats public safety as a community effort that requires trust between residents and police.

The Trump administration has filed a lawsuit challenging Boston's sanctuary law. The legal battle will test how cities can craft immigration policies that serve their unique communities.

Boston continues building bridges with all residents, proving that safety and compassion can work together.