US Justice Dept. Removes Lawyer After Criticism of Immigration Enforcement Failures

The US Justice Department has removed a government lawyer from an assignment in Minnesota after she expressed dissatisfaction with her work and alleged failures by immigration authorities. Julie Le, an attorney with the US Department of Homeland Security, had been detailed to the US Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota since January 5, helping address hundreds of lawsuits filed against immigration enforcement during Trump administration.

Julie Le was ordered to appear before U.S. District Judge Jerry Blackwell in St. Paul on Tuesday to explain her agency’s non-compliance with court orders. According to a court transcript, she said bluntly, “This job sucks” and that immigration authorities had failed to comply with court directives in various cases.

Le volunteered for the assignment to assist with hundreds of lawsuits challenging the detention of individuals caught up in what was termed “Operation Metro Surge.” She reportedly worked days and nights on these cases but felt inadequately trained by her agency. Le cited difficulties ensuring compliance with all court orders, including previous instances where ICE had not followed directives.

In a hearing at which Le appeared, she said she wished for an administrative contempt order against herself to get the required rest. The Justice Department spokesperson defended their actions, stating they were fully enforcing federal immigration law and blamed high caseloads on “rogue judges.”

A DHS spokesperson characterized her comments as unprofessional but did not specify if she had returned to her previous role. Le declined comment.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Minnesota faced pressure due to a surge of immigration-related cases challenging enforcement actions, with six prosecutors resigning amidst protests over Trump administration handling of an investigation into the death of Renee Good by an ICE agent. Judge Blackwell acknowledged concerns but maintained his stance against non-compliance and requested further action for those failing to adhere to court orders.

Le expressed shared concern about fairness in immigration cases, emphasizing her personal ties to a vulnerable community facing potential detention risks.