Alva Review-Courier -

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department ramped up pressure Wednesday on so-called sanctuary cities seeking public safety grant money, warning that they could be legally forced to prove they are cooperating with federal immigration authorities. The move prompted immediate backlash, with mayors from across the country boycotting a planned meeting at the White House with President Donald Trump on Wednesday afternoon.

Trump responded by accusing the boycotting mayors of putting the needs of "criminal illegal immigrants over law-abiding Americans."

Officials sent letters to roughly two dozen juris...