GOOD NEWS: Judge Howell BANS the Trump administration from making warrantless immigration arrests in DC without probable cause or a warrant.

In a sweeping legal decision, Chief Judge Beryl A. Howell has issued an order blocking the Trump administration from conducting warrantless immigration arrests in Washington, D.C., ruling that federal agents must demonstrate probable cause or obtain a valid warrant before detaining individuals.

The ruling, handed down Thursday, emphasizes that immigration enforcement actions in the District must comply with constitutional protections against unreasonable searches and seizures.

Judge Howell wrote that the government “cannot bypass the core safeguards of the Fourth Amendment, even in the context of immigration enforcement.”

Immigration advocates hailed the decision as a major victory for civil liberties, arguing that it will prevent indiscriminate arrests and protect the rights of residents and workers across the capital.

The Justice Department has not yet indicated whether it will appeal the ruling.

Local officials said the order brings clarity and oversight to practices that had raised concerns among community leaders and civil rights groups.

The ruling takes effect immediately.