Philadelphia Sheriff Rochelle Bilal has gone viral for her sharp remarks against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during a press conference.
The presser was held to address the death of Renee Nicole Good, a Minneapolis mother and poet who was fatally shot during a law enforcement operation.
Speaking forcefully, Bilal described ICE agents as “made-up, fake wannabe law enforcement,” accusing them of violating both legal and moral standards. She questioned the agency’s operational tactics, particularly the use of face coverings during enforcement actions.
“Real law enforcement officers don’t do that,” Bilal said, adding that crimes committed in Philadelphia would not result in suspects being “whisked away” to conceal their identities.
Bilal went further by issuing a pointed warning, aligning herself publicly with Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner, who has pledged to arrest and prosecute any law enforcement officer who commits crimes within city limits—regardless of federal affiliation.
“I’m with the DA,” Bilal said. “You don’t want this smoke. Because we will bring it to you.”
In remarks that drew immediate political backlash, the sheriff also aimed at President Donald Trump, asserting that “the criminal in the White House” would not be able to shield ICE agents from accountability in Philadelphia.
The comments, first amplified by U.S. media including Fox News, have triggered outrage among conservative commentators and some law-enforcement advocates, with critics calling for Bilal’s resignation. Supporters, however, have praised her stance as a bold defense of local jurisdiction, civil liberties, and community trust in policing.
Bilal’s remarks followed heightened tensions after an ICE agent fatally shot a driver in Minneapolis earlier in the week. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said the shooting occurred in self-defense, claiming officers were targeted during a violent confrontation.
In a statement posted on social media, DHS alleged that individuals at the scene attempted to run over ICE officers with a vehicle, describing the act as “domestic terrorism.” According to the department, an officer fired defensive shots after fearing for his life and the safety of others.
The Minneapolis incident has intensified scrutiny of ICE’s enforcement methods and renewed calls for greater oversight, particularly as immigration policy once again dominates political discourse in the United States.
Bilal, who made history as the first Black woman elected sheriff in Philadelphia’s 343-year history, is no stranger to controversy. She has previously faced criticism over her leadership style and spending decisions, as well as allegations—some of which she has dismissed as politically motivated or misinformation.
