Maryland Sheriff Challenges Sanctuary Laws in Lawsuit, Citing 9/11 Lessons

<p>Sheriff Jeffrey Gahler of Harford County, Maryland, is leading a lawsuit against the state's sanctuary city policy, supported by 17 of the state's 24 counties. Gahler expressed concerns to Congress that the lessons learned from the September 11, 2001, terror attacks are being overlooked as the nation approaches the 25th anniversary of the attacks.</p><p>Gahler highlighted the impact of the sanctuary laws, which he argues create barriers to communication between local and federal law enforcement. He stated, "There's just many things that [Annapolis’] legislature has done over the past eight years or so, unfortunately, rang into that bell. But when you pass legislation in a world post-9/11 – in 9/11 we learned that we need to communicate with … all federal partners to keep our community safe." This statement was made during questioning by Rep. Brandon Gill, R-Texas.</p><p>Gahler referred to the sanctuary laws as "pro-criminal" and criticized the restrictions that prevent local law enforcement from cooperating with federal immigration authorities. He noted that these laws can force deputies to release individuals whom they believe may pose a danger instead of holding them for federal authorities.</p><p>Gahler was accompanied by other sheriffs involved in the lawsuit against Governor Wes Moore's administration. Earlier this year, Moore signed Maryland’s ban on 287(g) agreements, which allow local law enforcement to assist with federal immigration enforcement, while allowing a broader bill, the Community Trust Act, to become law without his signature.</p><p>The Community Trust Act, authored by State Sen. Clarence Lam, D-Elkridge, prohibits law enforcement from questioning individuals about their immigration status or detaining them based solely on suspected civil immigration violations. The law also restricts law enforcement from notifying federal immigration authorities about detainees unless required by a court order.</p><p>Gahler asserted that honoring ICE detainers is not a burden on his department, countering claims from some Democrats that collaboration with ICE detracts from local resources. He affirmed his belief that illegal immigrants who commit minor crimes should be removed from the community.</p><p>Governor Moore has defended the Community Trust Act, stating that it aims to enhance crime reduction efforts. He has indicated that logistical concerns related to the law should be addressed through executive action or during the 2027 legislative session. However, Gahler and the other sheriffs argue that the law hinders their ability to cooperate with federal immigration authorities.</p>