Thread: Illegal Immigrant Criminals Falling Through The Cracks

ICE Officials Seek Better Communication With SF Jail

koat.com
Albuquerque News
UPDATED: 9:17 am MST January 11, 2012

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SANTA FE, N.M. -- Federal immigration officials said that Santa Fe County communities could be safer if the jail cooperated and didn't let criminals back on the streets.

Every year, hundreds of illegal immigrants who commit crimes and end up in the Santa Fe County jail are released back into the community. Federal agents said they want that to stop.

"ICE's mission is to improve public safety throughout the United States," William Jepsen, with Immigration and Customs Enforcement, said. "We've made multiple attempts to resolve this with Santa Fe County."

According to U.S. code, jails must hold inmates with immigration detainers for 48 hours after they're set to be released and then inform ICE officials so they can pick up the inmates.

"With the exception of Santa Fe, jails in New Mexico do communicate with ICE on a regular basis, by fax, by phone and by email, to inform us when an alien is being released from their custody," Jepsen said.

ICE officials said officers at the Santa Fe County Detention Center often won't tell them if or when inmates are going to be released, and so the inmates fall through the cracks.

"The cooperation with the county jail has never been consistent," Jepsen said.

The result is that only one-third of illegal immigrant criminals in Santa Fe County are actually taken into ICE custody.

"Somebody's dropping the ball," Santa Fe police Lt. Louis Carlos said.

Santa Fe city and county officers said the same criminals are constantly terrorizing the community.

Santa Fe County Jail Director Annabelle Romero said she follows all the rules.

"We honor those detainers," Romero said.

County leaders are now taking a closer look.

"It appears there is a disconnect. That's why Santa Fe County is taking the time to look at everything that's going on, review it, and see what changes need to be made," Santa Fe County spokeswoman Kristine Mihelcic said.

For the first time in years, ICE officials said they're optimistic that Santa Fe County leaders are willing to work with them and find a balance between being an open, immigrant-friendly community and a safe one.

Read more: Illegal Immigrant Criminals Falling Through The Cracks - Albuquerque News Story - KOAT Albuquerque