Arizona Latino Legislative Caucus condemns Trump’s pardon of Arpaio

Arizona Latino Legislative Caucus leaders released a statement after President Trump announced his pardon of former Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio.

“Today’s announcement from President Trump is yet another display of disrespect to the Latino community in Arizona. During Joe Arpaio’s 24 years as the sheriff of Maricopa County, he abused his position of authority to drive a personal agenda that promoted racism.

“On July 31, 2017, a federal district judge convicted Arpaio of violating the court’s previous order to cease his office’s immigration-related actions, which another federal judge found violated the constitutional rights of Latino residents in Maricopa County.

“The members of the Arizona Latino Legislative Caucus believe President Trump’s very first presidential pardon reinforces a clear message to the nation about where he stands on respect for the law and for all residents of Arizona. No amount of time will erase Arpaio’s hateful harassment and the fear he instilled in our community, and no one should be above the law.”