On September 8, 2025, the United States Supreme Court issued an emergency order allowing federal immigration authorities to resume broad enforcement operations in the Los Angeles area. The decision temporarily blocks a lower court’s ruling that had limited Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from conducting stops based on specific criteria.

The case originated from a July 2025 order by U.S. District Judge Maame Ewusi-Mensah Frimpong, who prohibited ICE agents in the Central District of California from initiating stops based solely on factors such as race, language spoken, type of employment, or presence at locations where undocumented individuals are known to gather. The judge cited concerns about Fourth Amendment protections against unreasonable searches and seizures.

The Trump administration appealed the ruling, arguing that the restrictions hindered immigration enforcement in a region with a high estimated population of undocumented residents. The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals largely upheld the district court’s order, prompting the administration to seek emergency relief from the Supreme Court.

In a 6–3 decision, the Supreme Court granted the request, allowing ICE to resume operations under broader criteria while the case continues. The majority did not issue a detailed explanation, which is typical for emergency orders. However, Justice Brett Kavanaugh wrote separately, stating that certain factors—such as employment in day labor or limited English proficiency—could be considered in assessing whether someone might be unlawfully present in the country.

Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Elena Kagan, and Ketanji Brown Jackson dissented. In her written dissent, Justice Sotomayor expressed concern about the potential implications for constitutional protections.

The underlying lawsuit was filed by advocacy groups and individuals who alleged they were stopped by ICE despite being U.S. citizens or legal residents. The plaintiffs argued that enforcement tactics relied on broad profiles rather than individualized suspicion.

Following the Supreme Court’s decision, ICE operations have resumed in the Los Angeles area, including stops at commercial locations and public gathering sites. The Department of Homeland Security maintains that enforcement efforts are focused on individuals suspected of being in the country unlawfully.

The legal case remains active in federal court, and further rulings are expected as arguments continue over the scope and constitutionality of immigration enforcement practices.