The judge overseeing Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita’s lawsuit against the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office could soon decide on the case.
Greene Circuit Court Judge Lucas Rudisill heard arguments from both parties during Friday’s hearing on the county’s motion to dismiss. County attorneys state Sheriff Ruben Marté’s policy regarding sharing citizenship information with federal authorities does not violate Indiana law.
Officers of the county sheriff’s office do not share or attempt to gain information about a detained person’s citizenship unless legally required.
According to the suit filed last summer, Rokita believes the language of Marté's policy encourages officers to not cooperate with federal authorities such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Rudisill already dismissed one version of Rokita’s first complaint, stating it did not add any new supporting detail to prove the sheriff office’s policy prevents communication or cooperation with the federal government. However, the judge did state the attorney general’s office may have an argument when it comes to whether the sheriff’s office policy places any limits on enforcing federal immigration laws. This means Rokita’s office can amend that argument with additional detail, if it wants.
Read more: Monroe County says Rokita shouldn’t get third chance to advance immigration lawsuit
Both sides are expected to present an order Wednesday detailing how they would like to see the case be settled.
In an emailed statement, attorney Justin Roddye said the county will propose dismissing all counts against the sheriff’s office.
After Wednesday’s hearing concludes, Rudisill can decide on the case at any time.