Trump administration flags multiple Rhode Island cities in federal crackdown

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The Trump administration has released a new list of states, counties, and cities it says are not cooperating with federal immigration enforcement. Included on the list are the State of Rhode Island, the cities of Providence and Central Falls, as well as the State of Massachusetts and Bristol County.

Federal officials say these jurisdictions are failing to comply with immigration laws and will soon receive formal notices of non-compliance. The administration is demanding that local policies be brought in line with federal immigration standards.

The announcement follows an executive order signed by President Trump directing the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice to publicly identify areas that limit cooperation with immigration authorities.

Local officials in Rhode Island are standing by their existing policies, which they argue support community safety and effective policing. Providence and Central Falls have previously challenged similar moves in court and won. Both cities are expected to maintain their current policies despite the renewed federal pressure.