Philadelphia Sheriff Issues Strong Warning to Federal Agents Amid Controversial ICE Shooting
On Thursday, Philadelphia Sheriff Rochelle Bilal warned federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents that city lawbreaking will not be tolerated. Bilal said federal officers who commit crimes in Philadelphia will be prosecuted.
Bilal told a press conference, “If any of them want to come in this city and commit a crime, you will not be able to hide, nobody will whisk you off. We will deliver this smoke, which you don’t want.” This statement reaffirmed the city’s commitment to local law enforcement and protecting people from federal agents.
Philadelphia police will follow District Attorney Larry Krasner’s order to intervene if ICE personnel commit crimes or endanger the public. Sheriff Bilal also slammed the federal government, saying the law holds people accountable regardless of politics.
The warning follows the January 7 shooting of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good by ICE officer Jonathan Ross in Minneapolis. National indignation and tensions between federal and local authorities in Democrat-led cities followed the tragedy.
Local authorities disagreed with federal officials, including Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who called Good’s actions threatening and self-defense. In a statement, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey called the self-defense claim “garbage” and accused officials of distorting the facts. Independent analyses suggested Good was shot while turning away from the officer.
Sheriff Bilal said ICE should not shoot at moving vehicles or use masks when engaging the public. She called such behaviors immoral and criminal. Bilal highlighted that police must follow professional norms to maintain public safety and accountability.
The event rekindled discussions about federal enforcement in places that value local supervision and community protection. Philadelphia’s response shows city leaders’ efforts to ensure federal agencies follow laws ethically.
Sheriff Bilal’s comments highlight federal-local tensions, notably in immigration enforcement. Her robust position indicates that Philadelphia authorities would closely follow federal moves and take legal steps to safeguard people.
Sources:
- Official statement from Philadelphia Sheriff Rochelle Bilal
- Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey official press releases
- Statements from U.S. Department of Homeland Security
- Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner directives
- Associated Press coverage on the incident
