DOJ Investigates NY Sheriff Over Migrant Release

The Department of Justice (DOJ) is investigating the Tompkins County Sheriff's Office in Ithaca, New York, for releasing Jesus Romero-Hernandez, an undocumented Mexican national with a prior assault conviction, despite a federal warrant for his arrest. Acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove criticized the sheriff's office for not detaining Romero-Hernandez until federal authorities could arrive, although Tompkins County officials claim ICE was notified in advance of the release. The incident has fueled tensions over 'sanctuary city' policies and has led to federal agents apprehending Romero-Hernandez later under risky conditions. The DOJ is considering prosecuting the sheriff's office, arguing that local law enforcement obstructed federal immigration enforcement. Local officials, however, assert there was no interference, and they refute claims of endangering federal officers. This investigation is part of a broader effort by the DOJ to address conflicts between federal and local immigration policies.