District Judge Jack Zouhary’s ruling in the Files case established that immunity for federal officers only covers actions “necessary and proper” for their duties, not personal disputes. This raises questions about the scope of federal agents’ authority, particularly in immigration operations. While cities and states can’t prevent federal arrests, actions like tear-gassing protesters or warrantless home entries may fall outside the bounds of necessary and proper conduct. Despite the theoretical potential for prosecution, the practical application is complex, involving potential conflicts with federal agencies and legal challenges in order to test this theory.
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Prosecuting ICE Agents: An Uphill Battle, Not a Legal Myth
District Judge Jack Zouhary’s ruling in the Files case established that immunity for federal officers only covers actions “necessary and proper” for their duties, not personal disputes. This raises questions about the scope of federal agents’ authority, particularly in immigration operations. While cities and states can’t prevent federal arrests, actions like tear-gassing protesters or warrantless home entries may fall outside the bounds of necessary and proper conduct. Despite the theoretical potential for prosecution, the practical application is complex, involving potential conflicts with federal agencies and legal challenges in order to test this theory.
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