After all, just because they are violent gang-bangers already under arrest doesn't mean they should be looked at for additional offenses.

Or at least that is the position taken by advocates for border-jumping immigration criminals.

A spot check by federal agents has identified 59 street gang members in Southern California jails who are illegal immigrants subject to deportation, sparking a debate about the role of border enforcement in the region's battle against violent gangs.

The initial identification of deportable gang members came during a first-of-its-kind screening of a portion of jail inmates last month.

The review will continue, and officials expect during the first year to identify 700 to 800 gang members who are illegal immigrants, according to Jim Hayes, director of the Los Angeles field office for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

The results so far have some officials convinced that border enforcement needs to be a big part of combating the gang problem.

"We play a vital role with respect to foreign nationals who are in gangs here," Hayes said.

Of course, LA's Special Order 40 effectively provides sanctuary for criminal border-jumpers by preventing LA cops from inquiring about immigration status. Only when they comply with federal law and allow federal officials to check on immigration status does the magnitude of the problem become clear. And while different numbers relatd top different populations are cited in the article, it is not unreasonable to conclude that anywhere from 10% to 25% of those arrested in LA are eligible for deportation -- but the city is aiding and abetting their illegal residence in this country with this policy.

I'm not for random stops of people on the stree demanding proof of citizenship -- that is absurd. But a citizenship/immigration status check following arrest is hardly intrusive -- and makes good sense from a public policy standpoint.

Posted by: Greg at 12:50 PM | No Comments | Add Comment
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