The U.S. Department of Justice is challenging a court decision concerning a lawsuit against Illinois, Cook County, and Chicago regarding their sanctuary city policies. The I-Team has uncovered this development.

Originally filed in February, the DOJ’s lawsuit accused these local and state governments of obstructing federal immigration laws. Specifically, it targeted policies that prevent local and state law enforcement from engaging in immigration enforcement and from sharing information about the custody status and release of detained individuals.

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In July, U.S. District Judge Lindsay Jenkins dismissed the lawsuit, stating that “the United States lacks standing to sue… with respect to the Sanctuary Policies.”

Judge Jenkins further elaborated, noting that “the Federal Government may not compel the States to enact or administer a federal regulatory program.” She emphasized that while Congress holds significant powers, it cannot use states as instruments to enforce federal initiatives.

The DOJ was granted a month to revise its complaint; however, it chose not to do so. Consequently, Judge Jenkins’ ruling was finalized with prejudice, meaning it was a definitive dismissal.

Almost two months after this final ruling, Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate informed the court on Friday of the DOJ’s intent to appeal the decision to the Seventh Circuit Court, as noted in a recent court filing.

This is a developing story; check back with ABC7 Chicago for updates.

The video in the player above is from an earlier report.