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Federal judge blocks Philadelphia rule restricting masked federal agents
A federal judge has halted a Philadelphia ordinance that barred federal immigration officers from wearing masks while conducting enforcement. The ruling addresses a challenge filed by the U.S. government.
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A federal judge has temporarily blocked a Philadelphia ordinance that prohibited federal immigration officers from wearing masks during enforcement operations. The ordinance, known locally as the "ICE Out" measure, sought to bar masked federal agents from operating within city limits.
City officials had approved the rule earlier this year. The U.S. government filed suit, arguing the measure interfered with federal law enforcement authority. The judge granted a preliminary injunction, finding the city rule likely conflicts with federal statutes.
Background on the ordinance Philadelphia enacted the measure to increase transparency during federal immigration actions. The rule applied to agents conducting arrests or searches while wearing face coverings. City leaders stated the policy aimed to protect residents from intimidation.
Federal authorities countered that masks protect officers and their families from identification and retaliation. The injunction prevents the city from enforcing the mask restriction while the lawsuit proceeds. No date has been set for a full hearing on the merits.
