Prosecutors and public defenders in Massachusetts are suing to block federal authorities from arresting people in and around courthouses for immigration violations.
The plaintiffs, including district attorneys from Suffolk and Middlesex counties, said the threat of possible deportation is scaring witnesses and defendants away from state courts.
Berkshire DA Andrea Harrington said she applauds her colleagues for taking action.
"ICE (Immigration & Customs Enforcement) operating in state courthouses is bad public policy because it's bad for public safety, it's bad for the administration of justice," Harrington said. "It interferes with the separation of powers."
Harrington said this isn't quite as big of a problem in Berkshire County's courts.
"We don't see the level of activity in our courthouses on the part of ICE that they're seeing in Suffolk County and in Middlesex County," Harrington said. "If we did see that kind of activity, my office would absolutely be seeking to join this suit."
This lawsuit comes days after federal prosecutors charged a judge and former court officer with obstruction of justice. They allegedly helped a man wanted by immigration authorities, escape a courthouse in Newton.
A spokesperson for Northwestern District Attorney David Sullivan said the prosecutor was unaware of the suit and unable to comment. The office for Hampden DA Anthony Gulluni said he was unavailable to speak to the matter. And Worcester District Attorney Joe Early's office did not return a request for comment.
This report includes information from The Associated Press.
