News Summary
Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares held a press conference discussing immigration arrests and receiving endorsements from 78 sheriffs. He challenged the Governor’s claims regarding violent criminals among those arrested and emphasized the importance of distinguishing between immigration violations and violent offenses. Miyares expressed concern over the political rhetoric against immigration agents and its potential consequences, including escalating violence. The ongoing debate surrounding Virginia’s immigration enforcement methods remains contentious as both sides present differing views on public safety and legal implications.
Virginia – Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares held a news conference on July 23, 2025, in Richmond, where he addressed media inquiries regarding immigration arrests amid his reelection campaign announcement. At the event, Miyares received endorsements from 78 Virginia sheriffs, emphasizing support from local law enforcement.
Miyares clarified his stance on the controversial claim made by Governor Glenn Youngkin, who stated that over 2,500 individuals arrested by the Virginia Homeland Security Task Force were “violent criminals.” The Attorney General did not offer evidence to substantiate Youngkin’s statement and suggested that reporters seek confirmation from the Secretary of Public Safety, Terrance Cole, who was not present at the event.
In defense of the ICE’s courthouse arrests, Governor Youngkin characterized these arrests as a successful public safety measure, labeling many detainees as violent criminals associated with gangs such as MS-13 and Tren de Aragua. Conversely, Miyares presented a more nuanced perspective, focusing on immigration violations rather than violent offenses. He highlighted that several individuals already faced deportation hearings, having been ordered to leave the country.
Miyares expressed apprehension about political rhetoric directed at immigration agents, warning that it may escalate to violence against federal agents. He pointed to a troubling 500% increase in assaults on ICE personnel, citing a recent shooting involving an off-duty U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer. His remarks underscored the complex legal circumstances in which undocumented individuals might find themselves, often implicating multiple statutes when facing deportation or seeking employment in the U.S.
The attorney general noted a division between the language employed by state officials regarding the nature of the arrests. He contrasted Youngkin’s depiction of arrestees with his focus on the legal violations surrounding immigration enforcement. This contrast was highlighted by a specific incident in which an individual was reportedly detained by ICE while merely paying a fine, prompting criticism about the targeting of non-violent immigrants.
Civil rights advocates have voiced concerns about the impact of ICE’s operations, indicating that such actions create a chilling effect, making victims or witnesses fearful of participating in the justice process. In light of these implications, numerous advocates have called for a reevaluation of the methods used by immigration enforcement agencies.
Youngkin dismissed criticisms aimed at ICE, asserting that agents were avoiding sensitive locations such as schools and churches, despite conflicting reports suggesting otherwise. Continued scrutiny surrounds the details of arrests conducted by Virginia’s Homeland Security Task Force, which includes over 200 officers from various federal and state agencies.
Miyares has previously participated in ride-alongs with ICE to observe the task force’s efforts, recognizing instances of violent offenders among those arrested. However, immigration researchers have contested claims connecting undocumented immigrants to higher crime rates, highlighting evidence that shows they are not more likely to commit crimes than citizens born in the U.S.
Throughout his comments, Miyares has sought to strike a balance between supporting an assertive immigration enforcement strategy and steering clear of the more inflammatory remarks characteristic of Youngkin’s narrative. He reaffirmed that individuals detained by ICE at courthouses have undergone due process, having already been ordered to leave the country by a judge.
The ongoing debate over immigration enforcement in Virginia remains contentious, with both sides presenting differing views on the implications of these arrests and their effect on public safety.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Virginia Mercury: Miyares Offers No Proof That 2,500 Immigrants Arrested By VA Task Force Were Violent Offenders
- Google Search: Virginia immigration task force
- JD Supra: Early Returns Podcast with Jan Baran
- Wikipedia: Immigration in the United States
- Virginia Mercury: Miyares Leans In on Law and Order Message Ahead of 2025 Election
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Immigration Law
- WSET: Virginia Attorney General Clarifies ICE Cooperation Guidelines
- Google News: Virginia ICE arrests
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WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
