Indiana Attorney General Subpoenas Amazon, Sues Indianapolis Schools Over Migrant Trafficking

Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita has initiated significant legal actions against several entities, including Amazon and the Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS), in connection with alleged migrant trafficking activities. Rokita's office issued subpoenas to multiple organizations, asserting that they possess crucial information to combat labor trafficking in the state.

"I believe these entities have vital information to root out labor trafficking right here," Rokita stated during a press conference at the Allen County courthouse on November 13. The subpoenas seek business, financial, and client records, but details remain confidential as the attorney general's office emphasizes that they do not imply wrongdoing by the recipients.

On November 6, Rokita's office filed a lawsuit against IPS, claiming the district has not complied with a state law prohibiting sanctuary policies. "In our estimation, they are clearly operating a sanctuary jurisdiction," Rokita said. The lawsuit argues that IPS's policies hinder cooperation with federal immigration authorities, potentially allowing undocumented individuals to evade detection.

The lawsuit highlights a specific incident where IPS allegedly obstructed Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from retrieving a minor from school. According to the lawsuit, IPS staff concealed the child and contacted attorneys opposed to immigration enforcement, resulting in the father missing his deportation flight. Rokita's office contends that such actions endanger public safety and violate state law.

Assistant Chief Deputy Attorney General Blake Lanning remarked that sanctuary policies create an environment conducive to illegal immigration. He noted that millions of undocumented immigrants remain in the U.S. following the Biden administration's policies, and state cooperation is essential to address the ongoing border crisis.

Rokita emphasized the challenges of detecting labor trafficking, stating, "Because labor trafficking involves coercion, it is very difficult to detect. Often the victims won’t come forward." He expressed a commitment to scrutinizing employers and nonprofits that facilitate the movement of undocumented workers.

In response to the lawsuit, IPS has initiated a petition on Change.org to oppose Rokita's actions. The district has publicly stated its intention not to verify the immigration status of students or their families, asserting that it will not allow ICE access to school properties without a judicial warrant.

The lawsuit seeks a permanent injunction to compel IPS to comply with state law. Rokita's office has previously sent multiple letters requesting compliance but received no substantial response. The America First Policy Institute is assisting in the legal proceedings.

The actions taken by Rokita reflect a broader trend among local governments and nonprofits in Indiana, which have adopted policies perceived as undermining federal immigration laws. Both Indianapolis and Fort Wayne have received certifications as "Welcoming Cities," which require adherence to sanctuary policies.

Key Facts:

• Rokita's office issued subpoenas to Amazon and other entities on November 13.
• The lawsuit against IPS was filed on November 6, alleging noncompliance with state law.
• IPS has publicly declared it will not verify the immigration status of students or families.