Central Ohio public defender union condemns municipal court's cooperation with ICE

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- The Franklin County Public Defender Collective issued a statement Wednesday condemning ICE presence in the county municipal court.

The union pointed out the arrest of Leonardo Fausto, who was taken into custody as he was leaving the court for a traffic ticket.

"ICE agents have continued to maintain a presence in Municipal Court, creating an environment of fear and intimidation for our community," the statement reads. "As Public Defenders we believe that our courthouses must remain a forum for all members of our community to seek justice and maintain the protections of due process. We believe that ICE's presence in the courthouse undermines those longstanding and foundational promises and protections."

The Franklin County Court of Common Pleas has rules that prevent ICE from being present in its courthouse.

The union is calling on the Franklin County Municipal Court to do the same thing and "protect its community."

In a statement to NBC4, a municipal court spokesperson said it's the judiciary's role to interpret the laws.

"It does not have the authority to make legislative policy," the statement reads. "Therefore, it operates with the understanding that the Court does not possess discretionary authority to restrict law enforcement activities in public lobbies and hallway areas of the courthouse. However, law enforcement, including ICE, is not permitted to conduct arrests without courtrooms or to obstruct court proceedings. The Court remains deeply committed to serving the public."