FAIR Urges Attorneys General to Address Discriminatory Immigration Policies Affecting Justice System

FAIR Calls for Investigation into Immigration Neutral Prosecution Policies

The Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) has taken significant steps by urging Attorneys General across 22 states to investigate biased 'immigration neutral' prosecution policies. The initiative follows the publication of a report by the Immigration Reform Law Institute (IRLI), which sheds light on how these practices create a two-tiered justice system, disadvantaging U.S. citizens in favor of illegal immigrants.

On July 23, 2025, IRLI’s report highlighted troubling findings about progressive prosecutors who are allegedly shielding criminals from deportation while neglecting to provide the same leniency to American citizens. The communications to the Attorneys General explicitly call for an inquiry into these policies, which FAIR deems unconstitutional and harmful to the integrity of the justice system.

The States Targeted

The initiative included outreach to Attorneys General from states covered in the report, such as Pennsylvania, Virginia, Oregon, Washington, New York, Michigan, Illinois, and Colorado. FAIR also reached out to states with strict anti-sanctuary laws to ensure that similar 'immigration neutral' policies do not covertly take root. These states include Florida, Texas, Iowa, Oklahoma, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Arkansas, Kansas, Idaho, South Dakota, North Dakota, Tennessee, and Wyoming.

FAIR’s executive director, Dale Wilcox, expressed grave concern that these policies not only violate the rights of U.S. citizens but also undermine the foundational principle of equal justice. "We are calling on state Attorneys General to exercise their authority to investigate and enjoin these practices, restoring equal justice under the law," Wilcox stated. He further emphasized that there is no adequate justification for the discriminatory treatment of U.S. citizens, and that such practices must be halted in order to maintain American sovereignty and public safety.

Findings of the IRLI Report

The IRLI's investigation revealed that in certain jurisdictions, prosecutors are prioritizing immigration status when making critical decisions such as charges and sentencing. This often leads to reduced charges or more lenient sentences for alien defendants as a way to avoid triggering federal immigration penalties. The report connects these policies to individuals and organizations that promote anti-border ideologies, suggesting that such practices have resulted in serious repercussions—including repeat offenses by individuals who were previously granted leniency.

Mateo Forero, the director of investigations at IRLI, pointed out that the documented patterns in sanctuary jurisdictions show a systematic effort by some prosecutors to obstruct federal immigration enforcement. This alarming trend fosters a lack of trust in the justice system while simultaneously threatening community safety through an increase in illegal immigration and recidivism among offenders.

Building on Prior Research

This report builds on earlier findings by IRLI, including a critical exposé published in 2024 that focused on policies implemented by Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner. It also follows a May 2025 letter addressed to Attorney General Pam Bondi, which called for federal intervention under 34 U.S.C. § 12601.

FAIR has committed to supporting state Attorneys General who are keen on pursuing inquiries into these discriminatory practices. By offering additional research and resources, FAIR aims to strengthen the case against policies that threaten both civil rights and public safety.

In conclusion, the Federation for American Immigration Reform continues to advocate for immigration reform that aligns with national interests, prioritizing the protection of American citizens and upholding the rule of law. The investigation into immigration neutral prosecution policies is a step towards ensuring justice is equally served to all, without bias based on immigration status.

For more information, contact Ira Mehlman at 213.700.0407 or via email.