Justice Department Publishes List of Sanctuary Jurisdictions

 

Today, the Justice Department published a list of states, cities, and counties identified as having policies, laws, or regulations that impede enforcement of federal immigration laws.

“Sanctuary policies impede law enforcement and put American citizens at risk by design,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “The Department of Justice will continue bringing litigation against sanctuary jurisdictions and work closely with the Department of Homeland Security to eradicate these harmful policies around the country.”

On April 28, 2025, President Trump signed Executive Order 14287 : Protecting American Communities from Criminal Aliens. The Executive Order recognized that “some State and local officials . . . continue to use their authority to violate, obstruct, and defy the enforcement of Federal immigration laws” and “[i]t is imperative that the Federal Government restore the enforcement of United States law.” The Executive Order directed the Justice Department, in collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security, to publish a list of such jurisdictions. Accordingly, the following states, cities, and counties have been identified as sanctuary jurisdictions:

STATES:

• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• District of Columbia
• Illinois
• Minnesota
• Nevada
• New York
• Oregon
• Rhode Island
• Vermont
• Washington

COUNTIES:

• Baltimore County, MD
• Cook County, IL
• San Diego County, CA
• San Francisco County, CA

CITIES:

• Albuquerque, NM
• Berkeley, CA
• Boston, MA
• Chicago, IL
• Denver, CO
• East Lansing, MI
• Hoboken, NJ
• Jersey City, NJ
• Los Angeles, CA
• New Orleans, LA
• New York City, NY
• Newark, NJ
• Paterson, NJ
• Philadelphia, PA
• Portland, OR
• Rochester, NY
• Seattle, WA
• San Francisco City, CA

In recent months, the Justice Department has filed several lawsuits against sanctuary jurisdictions seeking to compel compliance with federal law, including one against New York City  on July 24th. Recently, the Mayor of Louisville agreed to revoke their sanctuary policies  following a letter from the Justice Department threatening legal action.

Read more about the sanctuary jurisdiction list and the criteria for inclusion here. This list is not exhaustive and will be updated as federal authorities gather further information. The federal government will assist any jurisdiction that desires to be taken off this list to identify and eliminate their sanctuary policies, so they no longer stand in opposition to federal immigration enforcement.

ICE Lodges Arrest Detainer on Criminal Illegal Alien Pedophile in Sanctuary State Massachusetts

 

Too often sanctuary policies lead to the release of convicted child predators, murderers, and rapists into American communities

Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) lodged an arrest detainer for Manuel Umana Solorzano, a criminal illegal alien and pedophile from El Salvador.

On August 1, Solorzano was arrested by local police and the U.S. Marshals Service. His charges include:

• Indecent Assault and Battery on a Child Under 14
• Possession of Child Pornography
• Reckless Endangerment of a Child
• Photographs of Sexual or Intimate Parts of Child
• Statutory Rape of Child with a Five-Year Age Difference
• Rape of a Child with Force
• Lascivious Posing or Exhibition of a Child in the Nude
• Resisting Arrest

Manuel Umana Solorzano, a criminal illegal alien from El Salvador, entered the country at an unknown date and location and without inspection by an immigration officer.

“This pedophile should have never been in our country. ICE lodged an arrest detainer to ensure local authorities don’t release this creep back into American neighborhoods,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Unfortunately, far too often sanctuary states like Massachusetts refuse to honor detainers to turn these criminal illegal aliens over to ICE. Instead, they release child predators and other violent criminals back into our neighborhoods. President Trump and Secretary Noem will continue to do everything in their power to remove pedophiles from our country and protect America’s children.”

ICE detainers are legal requests to state or local law enforcement to hold illegal aliens in custody and turn them over to immigration authorities. These individuals often have prior deportation orders, criminal convictions, or pose national security or public safety threats.  

DHS reaffirms our commitment to the American people—it will not be deterred by partisan attacks or activist pressure. ICE will continue placing detainers, enforcing immigration law, and defending public safety—because every American deserves to feel safe in their own neighborhood.

Governor Hochul Announces the Groundbreaking of the $24 Million Expansion of the Roundabout Theatre Company’s Todd Haimes Theatre

Historic Capital Project Reflects $1.9 Million State Investment in Arts and Culture

First Major Renovation in Nearly 30 Years Will Enhance Accessibility and Modernize Broadway Venue

Governor Hochul announced the groundbreaking of the Roundabout Theatre Company’s Todd Haimes Theatre in New York City. The $24 million project is supported by a $1.9 million investment from the New York State Council on the Arts and Empire State Development to serve more visitors with improved accessible seating, expanded lobby space, façade improvements, and the installation of assisted listening technology.

“Theater is at the heart of what makes New York a global capital of culture — drawing millions of visitors, creating good-paying jobs, and fueling our economy,” Governor Hochul said. “The renovation of the Todd Haimes Theatre ensures that this iconic venue remains a cornerstone of Broadway, while expanding accessibility and enhancing the experience for all. By investing in the arts, we’re investing in the future of New York’s cultural and economic vitality.”

Founded in 1965, the award-winning Roundabout Theatre Company is one of New York State’s leading cultural institutions, producing dynamic works and championing artists at every stage of their careers. In addition to welcoming over 200,000 attendees annually, Roundabout is committed to transformative arts education, serving thousands of students and educators through its programming. The Todd Haimes Theatre renovation will include a restoration of the venue's historic interior, electrical improvements to the façade, updates to elevators, and modern, accessible renovations to restrooms and safety systems. Accessibility will be expanded with the installation of an induction loop, connecting a Deaf or Hard of Hearing patron’s hearing aid directly to the sound system. The theater’s seats and resilient carpet will also be replaced. Empire State Development is supporting the renovation of the Todd Haimes Theatre’s Penthouse Lobby to create new public gathering space and deliver essential infrastructure upgrades. This investment reflects ESD’s commitment to strengthening cultural institutions that drive tourism, support local jobs, and anchor the continued revitalization of 42nd Street. 

Nigerian Man Extradited To Face Hacking, Fraud, And Identity Theft Charges

 

United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, and Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), Christopher G. Raia, announced that CHUKWUEMEKA VICTOR AMACHUKWU, a/k/a “Chukwuemeka Victor Eletuo,” a/k/a “So Kwan Leung,” was extradited yesterday to the U.S. from France in connection with hacking, fraud, and identity theft offenses.  AMACHUKWU was presented today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Lehrburger.  The case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Paul G. Gardephe 

“As alleged, Chukwuemeka Victor Amachukwu took part in a scheme to hack into U.S. tax businesses, trade in the stolen identifying information of victims, and defraud the IRS and other governmental bodies,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton.  “Amachukwu also allegedly took part in a separate fraud scheme that promised his victims valuable investments that did not in fact exist.  This Office and our law enforcement partners stand committed to protecting Americans from criminals operating here and offshore.” 

“Amachukwu allegedly operated multiple illicit fraud schemes – identity theft, computer intrusions via spearphishing, and false investments – profiting at the costs of others,” said FBI Assistant Director in Charge Christopher G. Raia.  “If you are attempting to enrich yourself by scamming Americans from behind a keyboard, the FBI with our extensive law enforcement partnerships is willing and able to bring you to the United States to face justice.”

According to the Superseding Indictment, public court filings, and statements made in court:[1]

Beginning in at least in or about 2019, AMACHUKWU, his co-conspirator Kinglsey Uchelue Utulu, and other Nigeria-based conspirators took part in a scheme to hack into U.S-based tax preparation businesses—including several U.S. based businesses located in New York, Texas, and other states—by utilizing spearphishing emails to obtain access to these business’s electronic systems.  Once they had obtained access, the conspirators stole the tax and other identifying information of the business’ customers.

The conspirators obtained the stolen identity information of thousands of individuals and used this information to file fraudulent tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities.  The conspirators sought fraudulent refunds of at least approximately $8.4 million, of which they successfully obtained at least approximately $2.5 million.

In addition to filing fraudulent tax returns, the conspirators used the stolen identities to file fraudulent claims with the Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program.  The conspirators were able to obtain at least an additional approximately $819,000 in fraudulent payouts.

AMACHUKWU is also charged with participating in a separate fraud scheme.  In this scheme, the defendant offered victims investments in purportedly valuable standby letters of credit.  However, these letters of credit did not exist, and AMACHUKWU pocketed millions of dollars of his victims’ money.

AMACHUKWU was arrested in France at the request of the United States for his involvement in this scheme, and he was thereafter extradited to the U.S.

AMACHUKWU, 39, of Nigeria, is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit computer intrusions, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; two counts of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; two counts of wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory consecutive sentence of two years in prison. 

The mandatory minimum and maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.

Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI, as well as the assistance of the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the U.S. Marshals Service in securing the arrest and extradition from France.  Mr. Clayton further thanked the French National Gendarmerie for their assistance in this case.

The prosecution of this case is being handled by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel G. Nessim is in charge of the prosecution.

The charges contained in the Superseding Indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. 

[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Superseding Indictment, and the description of the Superseding Indictment set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.

Mosquito Spraying on 8/6/25 8:30 PM to 6:00 AM 8/7/25

 

HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO SPRAY FOR ADULT MOSQUITOES IN PARTS OF QUEENS AND THE

BRONX TO REDUCE RISK OF WEST NILE VIRUS

Trucks Will Spray Pesticide in Parts of Queens and the Bronx on the Nights of August 4 and 6, 2025, Weather Permitting

Rain date: Thursday August 7^th, 8:30 PM through Friday August 8^th at 6:00 AM

To reduce mosquito activity and the risk of West Nile virus, the Health Department will conduct adulticide treatments in parts of Queens and the Bronx. Trucks will spray pesticides in sections of Queens beginning Monday, August 4, 2025, between the hours of 8:30 P.M. and 6:00 A.M. the following morning, weather permitting. In case of bad weather, application in Queens will be delayed until Tuesday, August 5, 2025, between the hours of 8:30 P.M. and 6:00 A.M. the following morning, weather permitting.

Trucks will spray pesticides in sections of the Bronx beginning Wednesday, August 6, 2025, between the hours of 8:30 P.M. and 6:00 A.M. the following morning, weather permitting. In case of bad weather, application in the Bronx will be delayed until Thursday, August 7, 2025, between the hours of 8:30 P.M. and 6:00 A.M. the following morning, weather permitting.

The Health Department will use very low concentrations of Anvil®, Duet®, or MERUS® 3. The risks of pesticides applied by the Health Department for mosquito control are low to people and pets. Some people who are sensitive to spray ingredients may experience short-term eye or throat irritation, or a rash. People with respiratory conditions may also be affected.

To stay safe during spraying

• Stay indoors, whenever possible.

• Air conditioners can remain on. While unnecessary, you may wish to close air conditioner vents or choose the recirculate function.

After spraying

• Wash skin and clothing exposed to pesticides with soap and water.

• Always wash fruits and vegetables with water. The most effective way to control mosquitoes is to eliminate any standing water. New Yorkers are also encouraged to mosquito-proof their homes and take precautions when spending time outdoors.

Reducing exposure to mosquitoes

• Use an approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus (not for children under 3), or products that contain the active ingredient IR3535.

• Make sure windows have screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.

• Eliminate any standing water from your property and dispose of containers that can collect water. Standing water is a violation of the New York City Health Code.

• Make sure roof gutters are clean and draining properly.

• Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty or covered if not in use. Drain water that collects in pool covers.

Report standing water by calling 311 or visiting nyc.gov/health/wnv. For more information about West Nile virus, call 311 or visit nyc.gov.

Locations of truck spraying in the Bronx for Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Borough Neighborhoods Boundaries Zip Codes Parts of 10461, 10462, 10465, 10469, 10464 and 10475

Bronx Parts of Baychester, Co-Op City, Country Club, East Bronx, Pelham Gardens, Pelham Manor, Morris Park, Park of Edgewater, Schuylerville, Throggs Neck, Unionport and Westchester Square. Bordered by Westchester Creek, East Tremont Avenue, Bronxdale Avenue, Morris Park Avenue, Williamsbridge Road, Pelham Parkway, Kingsland Avenue and Bartow Avenue to the East; New England Thruway and North Boundary of Pelham Bay Park to the North; Pelham Bay and Eastchester Bay to the East; East River to the South.

John Zaccaro Back to School Giveaway at Zimmerman Playground

 

Dear Neighbors,  

The start of the new school year is right around the corner and Team JZ has got you covered! Together with my partners in government we are giving away FREE backpacks!!

 

Details as follows: 

 

Where: Zimmerman Playground

When: Monday, August 11th

Time: 3pm - while supplies last

 

Please remember that this is a first come/first served event and every adult must have their child present to receive a free back-to-school backpack while supplies last. 

 

In Gratitude,

John Zaccaro, Jr

Governor Hochul Announces $43 Million in Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act Funding for Harlem River Greenway and Climate Resiliency

Project Will Bring New Open Space and Waterfront Access to Upper Manhattan Communities

Design Will Improve Resiliency, Help Mitigate Impacts of Extreme Weather and Protect Shoreline Against Sea-Level Rise

Governor Kathy Hochul announced funding to advance construction of major elements of the Manhattan Greenway’s Harlem River section to help connect neighborhood residents to the waterfront and bolster protections from extreme weather and sea level rise. The project, formally known as Manhattan Greenway Harlem River, includes a reconstructed seawall, new pathways for pedestrians and bikes, as well as a brand-new seven-block waterfront park funded in part by $43 million from the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act.

“New York State is investing in Harlem and other neighborhoods across the city with support from the $4.2 billion Environmental Bond Act, connecting communities to the waterfront while also making these areas more resilient and sustainable,” Governor Hochul said. “Last week’s severe flooding and resulting State of Emergency declaration are reminders that extreme weather is no longer a rare occurrence — it’s our new reality. This project comes at a critical time as we double down on building climate resilience, protecting vulnerable areas, and expanding access to safe and healthy outdoor spaces.”

Part of the broader Manhattan Waterfront Greenway initiative to create a 32.5-mile ring of green space around the island of Manhattan, the $309 million Harlem River project is a New York City-led effort to reshape Harlem’s shoreline. The Greenway will provide essential climate-friendly transportation, filling critical gaps that connect to the Empire State Trail through a landscaped corridor designed to absorb and retain rainfall, sensitively manage stormwater, and mitigate future flood events.

New York State is contributing $43 million in funding from the Environmental Bond Act, administered by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), to address climate vulnerability in a disadvantaged community by elevating the shoreline to reduce risks from sea level rise and intense storms, while also expanding waterfront access for East Harlem. The site will be elevated approximately two feet to an elevation of 11 feet, helping provide protection from sea level rise to 2080 projections. The new park will add hundreds of trees and shrubs, and two acres of lawns, helping to reduce urban heat island impacts in East Harlem and absorbing and retaining stormwater.

Additional project features include passive lawns, seating, fitness areas, a playground, public art, and community spaces for a neighborhood with some of the highest population vulnerabilities and environmental burdens in the state.

The project is a collaboration between New York City Economic Development Corporation, New York City Parks, and many other agencies, including New York City Department of Environmental Protection’s integration of necessary storm sewer upgrades within the project area to help manage stormwater and reduce flood risk for the neighborhood.

This Harlem River project is the latest step in Bond Act investments to enhance shoreline resiliency, encourage economic development, revitalize neighborhoods, and bolster recreational opportunities. In April, the Governor announced $60 million in Environmental Bond Act funding  is available now for Green Resiliency Grants to support vital stormwater management and resilient infrastructure projects in flood-prone communities across New York State. Applications for this program are due by Aug. 15, 2025. To learn more about Bond Act-supported projects, sign up for updates, and find other resources available for resilient initiatives, visit environmentalbondact.ny.gov.

Attorney General James’ Office of Special Investigation Opens Investigation into Civilian Death in Monroe County

 

The New York Attorney General’s Office of Special Investigation (OSI) has opened an investigation into the death of Akintunde Campbell who died on July 31, 2025 following an encounter with members of the Rochester Police Department (RPD) in Rochester.

At approximately 7:37 p.m. on July 31, RPD officers responded to several 911 calls reporting a man looking into homes and cars on Ernestine Street in Rochester. When officers encountered the described individual – Mr. Campbell – on a sidewalk on Ernestine Street, a brief struggle ensued before he walked away from the officers and allegedly displayed a black handgun. The officers instructed Mr. Campbell to put the gun down, but he did not comply. Officers discharged their service weapons, striking Mr. Campbell. Mr. Campbell was pronounced dead at the scene. Officers recovered a handgun at the scene.

Pursuant to New York State Executive Law Section 70-b, OSI assesses every incident reported to it where a police officer or a peace officer, including a corrections officer, may have caused the death of a person by an act or omission. Under the law, the officer may be on-duty or off-duty, and the decedent may be armed or unarmed. Also, the decedent may or may not be in custody or incarcerated. If OSI’s assessment indicates an officer may have caused the death, OSI proceeds to conduct a full investigation of the incident.

These are preliminary facts and subject to change.