New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who has criticized aspects of sanctuary initiatives for years, has staunchly defended himself over allegations that he is to blame for the policy.

New York City faces federal lawsuit from the Trump administration targeting sanctuary policies dating back to 1989 that prevent authorities from honoring ICE detainer requests.

New York City’s sanctuary city policies are unconstitutional and make it harder for federal immigration officers to do their jobs, the US Justice Department says in a federal lawsuit filed Thursday.