New York State Police’s Stance on ICE Cooperation

In a significant announcement, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has confirmed that the New York State Police will not collaborate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to deport violent criminal illegal immigrants. This statement creates a clear distinction between state law enforcement practices and federal immigration enforcement, emphasizing the state’s commitment to its immigrant community.

Governor Hochul’s Position

Governor Hochul, a prominent figure in New York politics, has taken a firm stance against cooperation with ICE. In her remarks, she labeled counties that choose to work with ICE as "renegade" entities. This characterization indicates a strong disapproval of local jurisdictions that align with federal immigration policies, particularly those that may lead to the deportation of individuals based on their immigration status. Hochul’s administration promotes the idea that public safety should not come at the expense of immigrant rights and community trust in law enforcement.

The Implications of Non-Cooperation

The decision to refrain from cooperating with ICE has several implications for both law enforcement and local communities. By not assisting in deportation efforts, the state police aim to foster a more trusting relationship with immigrant communities. This trust is essential for ensuring that all residents feel safe reporting crimes without the fear of being targeted for deportation.

This non-cooperation policy also aligns with a broader trend among several U.S. states and cities that have adopted sanctuary policies. These policies aim to protect undocumented immigrants from federal immigration enforcement, focusing on community safety over strict adherence to federal immigration laws.

Local Counties and Federal Immigration Enforcement

Hochul’s comments regarding "renegade" counties underscore the existing tensions between state policies and local jurisdictions. Some counties in New York may choose to cooperate with ICE, which could lead to a patchwork of immigration enforcement across the state. This disparity raises questions about the consistency of law enforcement practices and the potential for discrimination against immigrant populations.

Community Response

The response to Governor Hochul’s stance has been mixed. Advocacy groups supporting immigrant rights have praised her decision, viewing it as a necessary step towards protecting vulnerable populations. They argue that cooperation with ICE can lead to fear and mistrust within immigrant communities, discouraging individuals from seeking help from law enforcement.

Conversely, critics of the non-cooperation policy argue that it could undermine public safety. They contend that not cooperating with ICE may allow dangerous individuals to remain in communities, potentially posing a risk to residents. This debate illustrates the complexities surrounding immigration, public safety, and law enforcement practices.

Conclusion

Governor Kathy Hochul’s announcement regarding the New York State Police’s non-cooperation with ICE represents a significant shift in the state’s approach to immigration enforcement. By rejecting collaboration with federal authorities, Hochul aims to protect immigrant communities, foster trust in law enforcement, and maintain public safety. However, the implications of this policy will continue to be debated among policymakers, law enforcement, and community members as New York navigates the complexities of immigration and public safety.

This decision aligns with a broader national conversation about immigration policy and local law enforcement’s role in federal immigration matters, highlighting the continuing evolution of the relationship between state and federal authorities in the United States.

.@GovKathyHochul confirms New York State Police will not cooperate with ICE to deport violent criminal illegal immigrants — and says counties that do cooperate are “renegade” pic.twitter.com/OHOeRbvD0V

— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) March 24, 2025

.@GovKathyHochul confirms New York State Police will not cooperate with ICE to deport violent criminal illegal immigrants — and says counties that do cooperate are “renegade”

In a bold statement that has stirred up conversations across the nation, New York Governor Kathy Hochul has made it clear that the New York State Police will not be cooperating with ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) when it comes to deporting violent criminal illegal immigrants. This announcement has sparked a whirlwind of reactions, especially from counties that do choose to collaborate with federal immigration authorities. Let’s unpack what this means for New York and why it’s such a significant issue.

.@GovKathyHochul confirms New York State Police will not cooperate with ICE to deport violent criminal illegal immigrants — and says counties that do cooperate are “renegade”

The essence of Hochul’s message is about prioritizing public safety and community trust. She emphasizes that local law enforcement agencies should focus on their primary mission: protecting and serving their communities rather than acting as agents of federal immigration enforcement. In her view, collaborating with ICE undermines the trust that immigrant communities need to have in local police, which can deter victims of crime from coming forward.

.@GovKathyHochul confirms New York State Police will not cooperate with ICE to deport violent criminal illegal immigrants — and says counties that do cooperate are “renegade”

By labeling counties that cooperate with ICE as “renegade,” Hochul is calling out jurisdictions that are not aligned with New York’s approach to immigration policy. This term carries a weighty implication, suggesting that these counties are acting outside the norms and values that New Yorkers expect from their law enforcement agencies. It raises important questions about the political and ethical responsibilities of local governments in the context of immigration enforcement.

.@GovKathyHochul confirms New York State Police will not cooperate with ICE to deport violent criminal illegal immigrants — and says counties that do cooperate are “renegade”

The backdrop to this announcement is a growing tension between state and federal immigration policies. Many states have adopted so-called “sanctuary” policies that limit cooperation with ICE. New York is one of those states that seek to protect undocumented immigrants from deportation, particularly those who have not committed serious crimes. The rationale is clear: keeping families together and allowing immigrants to live without the constant fear of deportation can lead to safer communities overall.

.@GovKathyHochul confirms New York State Police will not cooperate with ICE to deport violent criminal illegal immigrants — and says counties that do cooperate are “renegade”

Critics of Hochul’s stance argue that non-cooperation with federal authorities could embolden criminals and endanger public safety. They claim that by refusing to work with ICE, local law enforcement is putting the community at risk. However, supporters of the policy argue that the evidence shows cooperation with ICE does not necessarily lead to reduced crime rates. Instead, it may perpetuate fear within immigrant communities, which could lead to underreporting of crimes and a lack of cooperation in criminal investigations.

.@GovKathyHochul confirms New York State Police will not cooperate with ICE to deport violent criminal illegal immigrants — and says counties that do cooperate are “renegade”

As this debate continues, it’s essential to look at the human side of immigration. Many undocumented immigrants are hardworking individuals who contribute to society in various ways, from labor to cultural enrichment. They often live in fear of deportation, even if they have no criminal background. Hochul’s position aims to alleviate some of that fear while still addressing public safety concerns through other means.

.@GovKathyHochul confirms New York State Police will not cooperate with ICE to deport violent criminal illegal immigrants — and says counties that do cooperate are “renegade”

It’s also worth noting that New York has its own set of laws and regulations aimed at addressing crime. Hochul’s administration believes that local law enforcement should focus on community policing and building relationships with residents rather than enforcing federal immigration laws. This approach has garnered support from various community organizations and advocacy groups that argue for the rights of immigrants.

.@GovKathyHochul confirms New York State Police will not cooperate with ICE to deport violent criminal illegal immigrants — and says counties that do cooperate are “renegade”

Furthermore, the tensions between state and federal immigration policies are not unique to New York. Across the country, various states and cities are grappling with the complexities of immigration enforcement. Some areas have chosen to be more inclusive, while others have taken a tougher stance against undocumented immigrants. The divergence in policies reflects broader national debates about immigration, security, and human rights.

.@GovKathyHochul confirms New York State Police will not cooperate with ICE to deport violent criminal illegal immigrants — and says counties that do cooperate are “renegade”

In many ways, Hochul’s stance represents a shift in how immigration is viewed in the public sphere. It challenges the traditional narrative that associates undocumented immigrants solely with crime and danger. Instead, it paints a picture of diverse communities where people are looking for safety, opportunity, and a chance to contribute positively to society.

.@GovKathyHochul confirms New York State Police will not cooperate with ICE to deport violent criminal illegal immigrants — and says counties that do cooperate are “renegade”

The implications of Hochul’s statement extend beyond New York State. It sets a precedent for how other states may approach immigration policies in the future. As more leaders begin to recognize the importance of community trust in law enforcement, we may see a broader shift toward more humane immigration practices across the United States.

.@GovKathyHochul confirms New York State Police will not cooperate with ICE to deport violent criminal illegal immigrants — and says counties that do cooperate are “renegade”

This ongoing dialogue about immigration and law enforcement is crucial for shaping the future of both local communities and national policy. As we continue to navigate these complex issues, it’s essential to stay informed and engaged. Understanding the perspectives of all stakeholders—law enforcement, immigrants, community members, and policymakers—will be key to finding solutions that work for everyone.

.@GovKathyHochul confirms New York State Police will not cooperate with ICE to deport violent criminal illegal immigrants — and says counties that do cooperate are “renegade”

So, what does this mean for you? Whether you’re a resident of New York or elsewhere, these discussions could impact your community. It’s essential to stay informed about local policies and to participate in dialogues that shape the future of your town or city. After all, immigration is not just a federal issue; it’s a local one, too. And as we learn from leaders like Governor Hochul, how we treat our neighbors—regardless of their immigration status—reflects our values as a society.