Trump administration scores win as judge clears way for ICE enforcement in churches, places of worship

The court found little evidence that ICE is targeting churches or that the change in policy is solely to blame for fewer people attending services. Friedrich noted that only a few enforcement actions have actually taken place at or near religious sites.

"That evidence suggests that congregants are staying home to avoid encountering ICE in their own neighborhoods, not because churches or synagogues are locations of elevated risk," Friedrich wrote in her opinion.

The policy at the center of the lawsuit took effect Jan. 20, Trump's first day back in office. 

On that day, the Department of Homeland Security rescinded an Obama-era guideline that had discouraged ICE agents from making arrests in "sensitive locations," including schools, hospitals and places of worship. Under the new rule, ICE officers no longer need special approval to act at these locations as long as they apply "common sense" and "discretion."

The judge, however, said bringing back the old policy might not change attendance numbers, since broader immigration enforcement actions could still keep people away.

Other legal challenges to immigration enforcement in sensitive locations are also making their way through the courts.

A federal judge in Maryland temporarily blocked operations at religious sites for some groups, including Quakers. But a judge in Colorado ruled in the administration's favor in a similar case involving enforcement at schools.

Friedrich's decision means the current policy will remain in place as the lawsuit proceeds. 

The Associated Press contributed to this report.