Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons announced plans to “flood” Boston with agents after Mayor Michelle Wu refused to comply with federal immigration demands, criticizing the city’s sanctuary policies as a public safety risk.

ICE officials claimed the increased presence would target criminal aliens, likening it to recent federal enforcement actions in Washington, D.C.

Wu responded by affirming her oath to uphold the Constitution and defending Boston’s autonomy, saying the city can ensure public safety without federal interference, NBC 10 Boston has reported.

Local and state leaders, including Rep. Aaron Michlewitz and Sen. Ed Markey, supported Wu, while the DOJ had given sanctuary cities a compliance deadline under threat of funding cuts or civil suits.