UPDATE: Introducing “Here Comes The Judge” with Judge Joe Brown Having His Say On Illegal Immigration Today

By Judge Joe Brown, Contributing Writer

There has been a lot of talk recently about “sanctuary cities” and the defiance of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) when it comes to handling illegal immigration. So, what’s really going on here? Are there laws that address these issues? Why hasn’t there been more discussion about whether the protection of individuals who have entered the U.S. illegally, along with the massive benefits they’re receiving, is actually authorized by law? What’s the truth behind this?

Why have we been led to believe that this protection of millions of illegal immigrants is simply a matter of compassionate, humanitarian policy?

Well, let me tell you: there are, without a doubt, laws that directly apply to the situation, and they have clearly been violated. Let’s break this down.

There’s something in law called prosecutorial discretion—this gives prosecutors the authority to choose not to pursue certain criminal cases. Unfortunately, members of the current administration, along with many other political leaders, seem to have felt immune to the consequences of their actions and have made it clear they’re willing to give extensive aid to people who have violated our laws.

A new administration is now in place, and they have a responsibility to address this issue. But what legal tools do they have to work with? Are there any laws that apply to the current situation with illegal border crossers? The answer is clear: yes, there are laws, and they make what is happening both illegal and unacceptable.

While some might dismiss this assertion due to the massive support being provided to millions of illegal immigrants, let’s examine the law. Congress has passed a number of laws that lay out the process of immigration and naturalization, and it has also criminalized certain behaviors related to immigration violations. The U.S. Constitution grants Congress the authority to establish the rules for naturalization and citizenship (Article I, Section 8). This empowers Congress to make laws governing immigration and to create agencies necessary to enforce those laws.

So, let’s take a look at some of the specific laws related to the current situation. For example, Title 8 of the United States Code, Section 1324(a) defines a range of criminal offenses involving interactions with illegal immigrants:

• Section 1324(a)(1)(A)(iii) makes it a crime for anyone to knowingly or recklessly disregard that an individual is in the U.S. illegally and then help conceal, harbor, or shield them from detection.
• Section 1324(a)(1)(A)(iv) makes it illegal to encourage or induce an individual to enter or stay in the U.S. illegally, whether the person knew or should have known that it was against the law.
• Section 1324(a)(1)(A)(v) prohibits conspiring, aiding, or abetting anyone who commits these violations.

These laws are clear: it is illegal to help, encourage, or allow people to enter or remain in the U.S. without authorization. Sanctuary cities, which openly defy federal immigration laws, are violating these statutes. It’s outrageous that elected officials—from governors to sheriffs to mayors—are publicly encouraging or permitting these violations.

The mainstream media also has a responsibility to inform the public properly, but it has failed to meet that obligation. Unfortunately, many citizens have become complacent, failing to demand accountability from their leaders.

The consequences of violating these immigration laws are serious. Depending on the offense, penalties range from a few years in prison to life sentences or even the death penalty in the most extreme cases. The sheer lawlessness we’re witnessing must be addressed, and those responsible need to face consequences. Without swift action, we risk our national security. We’ve already seen the threat that an unregulated border poses—not just from illegal immigrants, but from potential terrorists who could be infiltrating the U.S. among them. Our borders are not just a matter of immigration; they are a matter of national defense.

We’re also seeing many U.S. citizens being abandoned in favor of non-citizens. People in need of assistance here at home are being overlooked in favor of providing benefits and resources to those who have entered the country illegally. This is a direct betrayal of the American people.

The current situation is both dangerous and unacceptable. Our country has been infiltrated by people whose intentions and allegiances are unclear, and we cannot afford to ignore the risks posed by allowing millions to enter without proper vetting. The situation is dire, and we must demand justice for the many citizens who have been affected.

The individuals who have orchestrated and supported these actions must be held accountable. Their actions have not only endangered the safety and security of American citizens, but they have also violated the trust that the public has placed in its leaders. They should face trial, and if convicted, be punished to the fullest extent of the law.

In short, it is time to restore the rule of law and demand justice for the transgressions that have put our country at risk. The safety of our citizens and the integrity of our borders must come first.