Thread: CA: Supervisors approve extension of controversial immigrant

Supervisors approve extension of controversial immigrant program

By ALEJANDRO CANO
Published: Thursday, November 5, 2009 3:23 PM CST

Despite heavy opposition from local pro-immigration groups and civil rights organizations, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved on Tuesday the extension of a program that allows local law enforcement personnel to act as federal agents.

The county will continue to partner with federal immigration authorities to identify illegal immigrants booked into county jails on criminal charges so they can be deported to their home countries after serving their sentences, said Second District Supervisor Paul Biane, who represents the western part of Fontana.

With a 5-0 vote, the supervisors (including Josie Gonzales, who represents the eastern part of Fontana) extended the 287 (g) program for a three-year period despite protesters’ allegations of racial profiling, discrimination and abuse of human rights.

The county’s agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was originally implemented in 2005 after a request by Biane.

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Biane said he asked the Sheriff’s Department to develop a criminal illegal alien screening program after receiving reports that about 15 percent of criminals booked into county jails were in the country illegally and that their incarceration was costing the Sheriff’s Department about $12 million annually. In addition, the Sheriff’s Department reported that many illegal immigrants arrested and later released on bail or on their own recognizance did not appear in court to answer the charges against them, Biane said.

However, protesters claimed the program has been misused.

“The program was never intended to be used against innocent people who have committed no serious crimes and the agreement should be modified to reflect those values,â€

Despite heavy opposition from local pro-immigration groups and civil rights organizations, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved on Tuesday the extension of a program that allows local law enforcement personnel to act as federal agents

Bravo!

Outstanding. A community that doesn't bend to the wishes of non-citizens.

EXCELLENT!

Despite heavy opposition from local pro-immigration groups and civil rights organizations, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved on Tuesday the extension of a program that allows local law enforcement personnel to act as federal agents.

Thank you for doing what's right and just for this country and its citizens! Great job, as no doubt you were harassed and bullied by the militant pro-illegal invader crowd in there quest to propel their ethno-centric agenda which includes protecting illegal invaders!

Thanks for having character!