Ohio courthouse bans ICE arrests, deportations on courthouse grounds

OHIO — The Franklin County Court of Common Pleas has implemented new rules prohibiting civil arrests and deportations on courthouse grounds without a judicial warrant.

The court adopted two emergency rules on Friday in response to a recent increase in civil immigration enforcement actions near the courthouse.

Over the past 30 days, officials noted a rise in such enforcement efforts on courthouse property.

Local Rule 111 bans civil arrests within courthouse grounds unless there is a judicial warrant. This rule does not affect arrests related to criminal charges.

While Ohio law already restricts civil arrests of plaintiffs, defendants, and witnesses traveling to and from court, the new rule explicitly extends that protection to courthouse grounds, including sidewalks, driveways, and parking areas.

“This rule is intended to only apply to individuals having business with the courts and not intended to be a safe haven to avoid civil arrests for the public at large,” the rule states.

Local Rule 112 adds further protections by prohibiting arrests by judicial warrant inside a judge’s courtroom unless law enforcement has obtained written approval from a judge.

It also prevents court personnel from inquiring about immigration status, sharing personal information with immigration agencies, or assisting in immigration enforcement efforts.

Because these rules were adopted on an interim emergency basis, they will be open for public notice and comment within 90 days.