White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt on Wednesday hit back at Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner after he warned that immigration agents could face arrest, calling his remarks “disgraceful.”Responding during a press briefing, the White House press secretary questioned the basis of Krasner’s comments and criticised the tone of his warning.

‘Agents are helping, not breaking the law’

The White House press secretary pointed out that personnel from US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) were assisting travellers at airports rather than engaging in unlawful activity.“He’s talking to the ICE agents who are handing out water bottles and helping people move through lines at airports,” she said, dismissing the suggestion that agents were committing crimes.

Strong defence of ICE personnel

Defending the agency, the White House press secretary described ICE officers as “great people” carrying out critical responsibilities.She added that their work extends beyond airports to maintaining public safety nationwide, including tackling serious criminal threats.The White House press secretary also took aim at Krasner’s stance, suggesting he should speak directly with ICE personnel to understand their role instead of issuing threats.Her remarks underscored the administration’s firm defence of federal agents amid criticism from local officials.

What Krasner said about ICE

Earlier, Krasner had warned that federal immigration agents operating in Philadelphia could face legal consequences if they violated local laws. He asserted that any individual committing offences within the city’s jurisdiction would be prosecuted, regardless of federal authority.Krasner also said that presidential pardons would not shield individuals from local prosecution and stressed that his office would take action if laws were broken, while maintaining that his role was to uphold the Constitution and protect public safety.