Background of the Case
Chloe Dillon, previously an immigration judge in San Francisco, has initiated a federal lawsuit. She claims her dismissal by the Department of Justice (DOJ) followed her raising concerns about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) methods and actions. Dillon is the first among 14 local judges removed since January 2025 when President Donald Trump resumed office, prioritizing a stringent immigration agenda.
Allegations in the Lawsuit
Filed against Attorney General Todd Blanche, the DOJ, and the Executive Office for Immigration Review, Dillon alleges unlawful termination. Her firing supposedly followed repeated expressions of concern regarding unlawful ICE actions and directives affecting court procedures. The DOJ has rejected these claims, labeling them as “patently false.”
A DOJ representative stated, “This Department of Justice is restoring integrity to our immigration system.”
In August, Dillon voiced apprehensions via email about ICE allegedly detaining an unaccompanied minor unlawfully. She was terminated “without cause” shortly after, without notice or a hearing, raising constitutional rights concerns.
Details of Dillon’s Tenure
Dillon served from September 2022 to August 2025, appointed by the Biden administration. Her background includes a decade as a federal public defender in San Diego. Issues about ICE motions transferring cases and courthouse arrests were central to the lawsuit. Dillon resisted instructions from the San Francisco assistant chief immigration judge to grant such motions routinely, fearing breaches of due process.
Closure of San Francisco Immigration Court
Due to numerous firings and retirements, San Francisco’s immigration court was recently closed.
Concerns Surrounding ICE Operations
President Trump is losing ground on immigration policies due to ongoing concerns. A Reuters/Ipsos poll revealed declining favorability, with 40% preferring Republicans’ approach over 38% siding with Democrats.
Several incidents have sparked alarm, including fatal shootings by ICE and rising detention and death rates in ICE custody. In 2025, 30 deaths in custody were reported, the highest since 2004. Detention of minors, including infants, remains a critical issue.
Legal Proceedings and Expectations
Dillon seeks reinstatement, back pay, and damages in her lawsuit. She anticipates government response within 60 days, followed by potential discovery. The legal process is eagerly anticipated by Dillon.