Monday, January 7, 2008 - 4:47 PM MST
Thomas, Arpaio eye employer sanctions enforcementsThe Business Journal of Phoenix - by Mike Sunnucks Phoenix Business Journal
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Maricopa County Attorney Andrew Thomas said Monday that his office and Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio are reviewing complaints about businesses hiring illegal immigrants from last year to possibly take action under the state's new employer sanctions law.

Thomas said his office is dedicating resources, but will take its time in prosecuting sanctions cases.

The law went to effect Jan. 1. It suspends or revokes the business licenses of employers that knowingly hiring illegals.

"We will follow the evidence and see where it goes," Thomas said.

Business groups oppose the sanctions law worrying about its economic impact and legality. Hispanic groups also oppose the sanctions law and saying it could lead to racial profiling of Latino workers and businesses.

Thomas and Arpaio say they will enforce the sanctions law fairly.

Arpaio said Monday his office will look into whether possible tips on illegal hiring from other arrests and investigations. He pointed to recent arrests of store clerks for selling alcohol to underage customers and the apprehensions of four illegal immigrants.

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