AOC's "legal defense" isn't holding up very well...
In response, Tom Homan, the U.S. Border Czar, has called for the Department of Justice to investigate whether AOC's webinar crossed legal boundaries. Homan expressed concerns that the webinar might have been more about guiding individuals on how to evade enforcement rather than simply informing them of their rights. He emphasized the need for legal clarification on whether such actions constitute an impediment to law enforcement.
Homan further explained that while informing individuals of their constitutional rights is one thing, actively instructing them on how to avoid detection or enforcement operations could be seen as obstruction of justice. He pointed out that providing detailed guidance on not answering the door, refusing to comply with ICE agents, or advising on how to exploit legal loopholes moves beyond standard legal education and into potential interference with federal law enforcement duties. Homan also noted that such actions could embolden criminal networks, human traffickers, and individuals with outstanding deportation orders, making it more difficult for ICE to carry out its mandated responsibilities.
Additionally, he warned that if elected officials are allowed to openly assist individuals in avoiding law enforcement under the guise of legal education, it could set a dangerous precedent where public officials actively undermine federal immigration laws with no consequences. Critics of AOC argue that her webinar was not just about providing legal rights information but was a deliberate effort to protect individuals who are in the country illegally from being held accountable under U.S. immigration law. Homan stressed that the DOJ must investigate whether her actions fall under obstruction or aiding and abetting unlawful presence in the United States. Yahoo+5nypost.com+5newrepublic.com+5pjmedia.com
AOC has defended her actions, stating that the webinar was intended to provide civil education about U.S. laws. She has also written to Attorney General Pam Bondi, inquiring if she is under investigation for advising constituents on their constitutional rights when interacting with ICE. AOC expressed concern over public threats of political prosecution against her for informing constituents about exercising their constitutional rights. pjmedia.com+1Yahoo+1newrepublic.com+3axios.com+3Yahoo+3
Legal experts have weighed in on the matter, with some asserting that providing information about legal rights does not constitute a crime. For instance, Christine Flowers, an attorney and columnist, emphasized the importance of due process, stating that it applies to all individuals, regardless of immigration status, as upheld by Supreme Court cases like Reno vs. Flores. She commended AOC for educating immigrants about their rights under U.S. law and criticized those who ignore constitutional protections to score political points. Yahoo+7foxbusiness.com+7politico.com+7myjournalcourier.com
As of now, the Department of Justice has not publicly commented on whether it will pursue an investigation into AOC's actions. The situation continues to evolve, with debates surrounding the balance between informing individuals of their rights and potentially impeding law enforcement efforts.
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