Federal authorities have issued subpoenas to Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart for inmates wanted in civil immigration enforcement. These came with letters warning of criminal charges if the sheriff’s office did not comply, said the sheriff’s office. The New York Times reported on these letters as an attempt by the Trump administration to access jails in sanctuary areas.
Similar letters were sent to Hennepin County Sheriff Dawanna Witt, who dismissed the move as a “scare tactic.” This county includes Minneapolis, where immigration enforcement increased following “Operation Midway Blitz.” Dart’s office reported the letters threatened charges of witness tampering.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security did not comment. The letters are unlikely to lead to charges that would stand in court but highlight ongoing disputes over immigration enforcement in Illinois. Trump has criticized Illinois for policies that restrict local police from engaging in civil immigration enforcement.
Dart’s office received two letters with subpoenas for inmates, but one inmate had been released before the letter came. The office fulfilled the second subpoena, but state law prohibits sheriffs from releasing individuals for federal interviews without a court order.
The letters reflect conflict over sanctuary laws, which prevent local officials from handing inmates to immigration agents without a federal warrant. Trump’s administration sued Illinois, Cook County, and Chicago in 2025 over these policies, arguing they hinder federal immigration duties. A federal judge dismissed the lawsuit later that year.
Legal experts argue sanctuary policies help police maintain trust with communities. The Illinois TRUST Act, passed in 2017, was designed to enhance cooperation between law enforcement and the public. Chicago’s sanctuary city status dates back to 1985 when Mayor Harold Washington signed an order affirming it.
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