ICE and other federal authorities have arrested individuals in Virginia, without a judicial warrant — people who were obeying the law by showing up for court-mandated appearances

This is a clear violation of the US Constitution’s guarantee of due process. It adversely impacts public safety and it undercuts legitimate law enforcement efforts.

Those trying to obey the law by appearing in court currently have no protection from federal agents who are willing to violate the Constitution to arrest and detain them. These people might be appearing for asylum hearings or minor traffic violations, or as a witness.

Law-abiding members of the public should be free from arrest and detention while traveling to or from a court-mandated appointment or hearing.

Passing Senate Bill 351 will prohibit a civil arrest at Commonwealth courthouses without a reviewed judicial warrant or judicial order, and hold accountable any persons who violate it.