Chicago Green Card Holder Fined Under Revived Federal Law

A lawful permanent resident in Chicago was fined for not carrying his green card. The incident highlights a major policy shift by federal authorities. Rueben Antonio Cruz, 60, received a $130 penalty from ICE officers.

This enforcement action brings attention to a long-dormant immigration statute. According to NBC Chicago and the Chicago Tribune, the rule is now being actively applied. The case has sparked concern among immigrant communities.

Details of the Chicago Enforcement Action

The fine was issued during an encounter last week. Cruz was reportedly with a friend when ICE officers approached him. He did not have his registration documents on his person at that time.

Officers detained and questioned him before releasing him with a citation. This occurred under an enhanced enforcement operation in Chicago. Local media described the application of this law as “rarely seen” until now.

The Legal Basis for the Fine

The requirement stems from the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1940. Section 264 mandates non-citizens over 18 carry proof of registration. This typically means a green card or alien registration document.

Noncompliance is classified as a misdemeanor offense. The Department of Homeland Security confirmed this interpretation in a March rule. Potential penalties now include fines up to $5,000 or 30 days imprisonment.

Broader Implications for Immigrant Communities

This enforcement follows President Trump’s January executive order. The order directed agencies to fully execute immigration laws. It essentially overturned previous enforcement discretion guidelines.

The policy shift aims to reactivate seldom-used provisions of existing law. All registered non-citizens must now carry proof of status continuously. Failure to do so may result in criminal penalties.

This Chicago case demonstrates the practical application of revived immigration rules. Green card holders nationwide should be aware of this documentation requirement. The enforcement landscape has clearly shifted under the current administration.

Thought you’d like to know

What law requires green card holders to carry documents?

The Immigration and Nationality Act, Section 264, contains this requirement. It was originally enacted in 1940. The law applies to all non-citizens aged 18 and older.

What are the penalties for not carrying a green card?

Violation is a misdemeanor criminal offense. Fines can reach up to $5,000 under current guidelines. Jail time of up to thirty days is also possible.

Has this law been enforced recently?

Enforcement had been extremely rare until recently. The current administration is now applying it actively. Multiple cases have emerged in the past month.

Does this affect other immigration statuses?

The law applies to all non-US citizens with registration requirements. This includes various visa holders besides permanent residents. All must carry their relevant immigration documents.

Why was this law not enforced before?

Previous administrations used enforcement discretion for minor violations. Guidance focused resources on more serious immigration matters. That policy has been formally reversed.

Trusted Sources

NBC Chicago, Chicago Tribune, American Immigration Council, Department of Homeland Security