DOJ launches probe into allegations NJ governor, AG are harboring illegals

Acting U.S. Attorney for New Jersey Alina Habba recently announced a probe into the state’s Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy after he ordered state police not to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. In an interview with Fox News’ Sean Hannity, Habba stated that Attorney General Pam Bondi and President Trump have emphasized the importance of removing criminals from the country and enforcing federal law.

The investigation will not only focus on Gov. Murphy but also on New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin for alleged instructions to state police not to cooperate with any federal agencies on immigration enforcement. This comes after a 2018 “Immigrant Trust Directive” issued by former New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewal limited voluntary cooperation between state and local police with federal authorities to ensure that immigrants who are victims of crimes feel safe reporting incidents to the police.

In addition to restricting state police on immigration enforcement, Platkin’s office has also launched an investigation into allegations of racial profiling within the department. This move has been criticized by some as an attempt to hinder law enforcement efforts in the state.

While some states, cities, and police departments have adopted similar measures against assisting with administrative warrants for civil violations of immigration law, they maintain that they will fully cooperate with federal authorities on judicial warrants issued in active criminal cases.

The Trump administration has emphasized targeting known criminals for deportation and has highlighted cases where individuals with criminal histories have been released before ICE could take action. Recent arrests of convicted criminals, including a Chinese spy and a Turkish citizen wanted for murder, demonstrate the importance of cooperation between federal and state authorities in enforcing immigration laws.

Habba warned that anyone obstructing efforts to combat crime will face charges in the state of New Jersey for obstruction and concealment. The investigation into Gov. Murphy and Attorney General Platkin’s handling of immigration enforcement will shed light on the complexities of balancing state and federal law enforcement priorities.