Denver Mayor Mike Johnston signed an order on Feb. 26 directing city police to protect peaceful protesters from federal ICE operations and banning ICE from city-owned property.

The order instructs law enforcement to use de-escalation protocols, document ICE actions with body cameras, and intervene if federal agents use excessive force, including the possibility of detaining ICE agents who cross that line.

This action comes amid nationwide tensions tied to the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement surge, including fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens by federal agents in Minneapolis, which intensified criticism of federal tactics.

Johnston described the order as a way to protect civil rights, public safety, and the ability to protest peacefully without federal interference, Reuters has reported.

The White House criticized the move, saying local officials should cooperate with ICE rather than block enforcement.