Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner has warned ICE officers at Philadelphia International Airport that they could face arrest if they violate local laws, as federal and local authorities clash during the ongoing Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shutdown.
At a press conference on Tuesday, Krasner said, “This is how it works. You commit crimes within the jurisdiction that is the city and county of Philadelphia, I prosecute you.”
He added that he would not hesitate to “put you in handcuffs” and pursue jail time for any federal agent acting outside local law.
Emphasizing the limits of presidential authority, Krasner declared, “The president cannot pardon you.”
The remarks came as President Donald Trump deployed ICE officers to major airports to alleviate long security lines and travel delays caused by staffing gaps.
Hundreds of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees have quit or called out during the partial DHS shutdown, stretching airport operations and frustrating travelers.
DHS defended the deployment, noting that ICE officers are already funded and capable of temporarily supporting airport security, according to the Washington Examiner.
A department spokesperson said, “President Trump is using every tool available to help American travelers who are facing hours-long lines at airports across the country,” placing responsibility for the staffing crisis on congressional Democrats.
Krasner, known for his progressive positions on criminal justice and immigration, framed his warning as a call for federal agents to uphold the law.
He instructed ICE personnel to “keep your oath” and condemned mass deportation policies as “immoral,” stressing that any alleged misconduct would be pursued regardless of rank.
“I don’t care if you got a badge. The law will apply equally and even-handedly to all of you,” he said.
The district attorney’s statements echo prior criticisms of ICE, including labeling agents “wannabe Nazis” and pledging to pursue action against violations, Newsmax noted.
Critics and observers warn that his rhetoric could escalate tensions between local and federal authorities at a time when coordination is critical for public safety and airport operations.
Supporters of the federal deployment maintain that using ICE officers is a practical response to staffing shortages caused by the shutdown.
They contend that temporary assistance helps ensure traveler safety, prevents delays, and preserves operational integrity at major airports nationwide.
The dispute underscores broader tensions between enforcement-focused federal immigration policies and the approach of some Democrat-led cities that limit cooperation with federal authorities.
Krasner’s warning highlights the challenges that arise when local officials assert authority over operations within their jurisdictions, particularly during emergencies affecting national infrastructure.
As debate continues, Krasner’s statements have become a focal point in discussions over balancing local law enforcement powers with federal authority.
Critics warn such confrontations could disrupt security operations, while supporters argue they reinforce accountability under the law.
The situation also illustrates the complexities of managing public safety and operational priorities during extended government shutdowns, with airports caught between competing federal and local responsibilities.
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