Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) can now conduct immigration enforcement operations in Los Angeles without restrictions, per a Supreme Court (SCOTUS) decision. The decision comes in response to an appeal to the Court based on a block placed by a federal judge. The judge found federal immigration enforcement operations were unfairly targeting individuals based on factors such as race.

The government argued the block hampered the ability of federal agents to tackle illegal immigration in California. SCOTUS agreed that the stops weren’t unlawful and removed the restrictions. The majority didn’t offer a rationale for ruling, which isn’t uncommon in cases decided on the SCOTUS emergency docket.

Immigration enforcement operations in southern California initially sparked large scale protests in Los Angeles. In response, the government sent in five-thousand National Guard troops and Marines in response. Around two hundred and fifty national guard troops were still there by late August 2025.

Appealing the block, the government argued its Los Angeles operations are a key enforcement priority in its crackdown in undocumented immigration. The government also stated that race was not used as the sole factor to determine probable cause for detainment. The overturning of the block means federal agents can use the previously prohibited methods again. It’s unclear
what action, if any, the federal government will take in response to the SCOTUS ruling.

As always, Immigration USA actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, please contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws and policy updates. In an ever-evolving immigration landscape, we’re with you every step of the way.