What are the Arguments For and Against 287(g) Agreements?
A 287(g) agreement is a program that allows the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to authorize sheriffs, local police officers, and other law enforcement officers to perform certain duties under federal immigration law. The program is intended to promote public safety by removing criminal offenders with no official immigrant status from communities. However, the program has faced significant criticism and controversy and it is also largely misunderstood.
If you are an immigrant in the United States, you likely have many questions regarding the 287(g) agreement program. Below, our Atlanta immigration lawyer outlines some of the questions we hear most frequently, and the answers to them.
What are 287(g) Agreements?
A 287(g) agreement begins with a local law enforcement agency signing a Memorandum of Agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The agreement details the level of immigration enforcement authority being assigned. Certain law enforcement officers then undergo training. The type of training provided depends on the model of the 287(g) agreement, of which there are three. These models vary in the scope of authority given to law enforcement officers.
Under these agreements, local law enforcement agencies are responsible for the operational and personnel costs involved, including benefits, salaries, and administrative costs. However, there are some incentives provided by the federal government to offset some of these costs.
What are the Arguments for Supporting the Program?
There are certain supportive arguments for the 287(g) agreement program. These include:
- Removal of criminals: Supporters of the program argue that it helps apprehend undocumented immigrants who have committed violent crimes and remove them from the United States.
- More officers: Some say the program also serves as a method for providing more immigration officers in addition to ICE officials, which may increase efficiency.
- Better communication: The program is meant to promote better cooperation between local and federal law enforcement agencies.
What are the Criticisms of the Program?
Although the program has received some support, it has also been the subject of much criticism. The primary concerns include:
- Racial profiling: Investigations by the Department of Justice and civil rights groups have found that these agreements result in widespread racial profiling and constitutional rights violations, as officers often target Latino and immigrant communities.
- Questions regarding effectiveness: Some studies have indicated that the program does not significantly reduce crime rates. Additionally, research has also found that local law enforcement officers often focus on immigration violations rather than violent crimes.
- Erosion of community trust: The program can create distrust and fear between immigrant communities and local law enforcement. This can make residents reluctant to report crimes or cooperate with law enforcement, which can hurt the entire community.
Our Immigration Lawyer in Atlanta Can Help
If you or someone you love has been questioned or placed into custody by local law enforcement, our Atlanta immigration lawyer can help. For a consultation to discuss your case and needs, please call Shirazi Immigration Law, Inc. today at 404-523-3611 and to get the legal help you need.
Serving clients in Atlanta, Moultrie, and Dalton, GA and Chattanooga, TN.
Source:
ice.gov/identify-and-arrest/287g
