Baltimore County has found itself on a federal list categorizing it as one of the sanctuary jurisdictions in the United States. This designation comes from the Justice Department, which maintains that certain states, cities, and counties have policies that act as obstacles to the enforcement of federal immigration laws. The recently published list follows an executive order by President Donald Trump about the establishment and enforcement of immigration policy.
The inclusion of Baltimore County on this list has been met with resistance from local government officials. Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier has been vocal about her disagreement with the DOJ's classification, stating, "Baltimore County is not a 'sanctuary jurisdiction.' We believe our inclusion on this list was in error," according to a statement reported by WBALTV. Klausmeier further highlighted the county's commitment to community policing, emphasizing that public safety and adherence to laws at all levels remain top priorities.
Agent General Pamela Bondi appears unwavering in her assertion that, "Sanctuary policies impede law enforcement and put American citizens at risk by design." As reported by FOX Baltimore, Bondi's direction under the DOJ is to bring litigation against such jurisdictions and work in close quarters with the Department of Homeland Security to "eradicate these harmful policies" nationwide.
The updated list marks Baltimore County as the only Maryland jurisdiction among various states and municipalities that have been identified. The list extends from California, through several other states, and into multiple cities, including Chicago, IL, and Newark, NJ, among others.
