NCJ Number
205097
Journal
Police Chief Volume: 70 Issue: 2 Dated: February 2004 Pages: 36,38,40
Date Published
February 2004
Length
4 pages
Annotation
After reviewing arguments for and against using local police officers to enforce Federal immigration laws, this article concludes that adding the Federal responsibility of enforcing immigration laws to the job duties of local police officers would be imprudent and hinder their crime-fighting at the local level.
Abstract
Those who argue that local police should enforce immigration laws believe that the Federal Government is apparently unable to secure the borders, deter illegal immigration, or track down those who overstay temporary visas. The hundreds of thousands of local police officers could be asked to assist Federal officers in countering illegal immigration, particularly since it is such a crucial aspect of preventing terrorists from entering the country. Those who argue against the use of local police in enforcing Federal immigration law note that Federal immigration law and proceedings involve both criminal and civil aspects, with civil deportation proceedings being predominant. Involving local police in such efforts would divert them from the higher priority of enforcing criminal laws that impact the safety of the local community. Further, it would require additional training, personnel, and funds. Addressing immigration violations such as illegal entry or remaining in the country illegally, would require specialized knowledge of the suspect's status and visa history, as well as the complex civil and criminal aspects of Federal immigration law and its administration. This article concludes that the Federal Government should address the threats the Nation faces through illegal immigration, without making the job of State and local police more difficult and costly.