Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown has filed a lawsuit against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), escalating a dispute over access to records related to conditions at a Baltimore detention facility. The legal action, announced Tuesday, stems from the Attorney General’s Civil Rights Division and Federal Accountability Unit’s ongoing investigation into the treatment of individuals held in ICE custody.
The lawsuit centers on a subpoena issued by the Attorney General’s office demanding records pertaining to “hold rooms” – temporary detention areas – within the Baltimore facility. According to the complaint, ICE and DHS have failed to fully comply with the subpoena, hindering the investigation’s progress. The Attorney General’s office asserts that the requested records are crucial to assessing potential civil rights violations and ensuring accountability for conditions of confinement.
“We are seeking transparency and accountability regarding the treatment of individuals in ICE detention,” stated a press release from the Attorney General’s office. “The failure to provide these records obstructs our ability to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation.”
The investigation was initiated following concerns raised regarding the conditions within the Baltimore facility, including reports of inadequate medical care, limited access to legal counsel, and prolonged detention in restrictive environments. The Civil Rights Division and Federal Accountability Unit were jointly tasked with examining these allegations and determining whether state or federal laws have been violated.
The Attorney General’s office has previously highlighted its commitment to safeguarding federal funds and civil rights in 2025, framing the investigation as part of a broader effort to protect vulnerable populations. The lawsuit represents a significant step in that effort, signaling a willingness to pursue legal remedies to compel cooperation from federal agencies.
The Department of Justice’s accountability systems have faced scrutiny in recent years, with critics pointing to challenges in effectively addressing misconduct and ensuring compliance with civil rights laws. The Maryland Attorney General’s lawsuit adds to the growing pressure on federal agencies to demonstrate greater transparency and accountability in their operations.
As of Tuesday afternoon, ICE and DHS had not issued a public response to the lawsuit. The Attorney General’s office has indicated it intends to vigorously pursue the case in federal court, seeking a court order compelling ICE and DHS to fully comply with the subpoena. A hearing date has not yet been scheduled.
