Judge Criticizes Florida AG Over Immigration Law Defiance

U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams sharply criticized Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier and his legal team for allegedly defying her order blocking enforcement of a new state immigration law permitting the arrest and prosecution of undocumented immigrants. Williams had issued a temporary restraining order against the law and was 'surprised and shocked' when Uthmeier told police to comply but later said he could not prevent arrests. The judge accused Uthmeier of undermining her authority and scheduled a show-cause hearing for late May to determine if he should be held in contempt of court. Williams also indicated her intent to issue a preliminary injunction to halt enforcement while a lawsuit challenging the law's constitutionality proceeds. The central dispute concerns whether states have the authority to enforce immigration laws, which is traditionally a federal responsibility. Meanwhile, local law enforcement agencies like Miami-Dade's sheriff reported compliance with the federal judge's directive.