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newschannel5.com
Controversial Program Hailed As Successful
April 16, 2009 08:26 PM PDT

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - The Davidson County Sheriff's Office called a controversial immigration program a success.

Sheriff Daron Hall said since the program started 2 years ago, there had been a big drop in the number of immigrant arrests.

"I don't think there's any doubt that's had an impact in the world of people in our community committing crimes, that are also in the country illegally get that number in decline that's what we wanted to see," said Hall.

More than 5,000 illegal immigrants had been deported through Nashville's 287-G program.

The program allowed deputies to flag inmates who may be in the country illegally. Immigration authorities are immediately notified and deportation can take place.

"I think Nashville is a welcoming city. This was not intended to go looking for people who look like that don't belong here. If you're criminally involved, then you're opening yourself up for a check," said Hall.

Opponents said the program opened up the door to racial profiling and unfairly targets those with minor offenses.

"What happens is a lot of people who are entitled to benefits to become legal to the United States get picked up indiscriminately," said Linda Rose, a Nashville Immigration Attorney.

The Sheriff said one major benefit of the program was the reduction of gang violence in the city.

Since the program started he said more than 100 known gang members have been deported.

http://www.newschannel5.com/Global/story.asp?S=10199555