Law enforcement respond to new federal program issued by Secretary Kelly

A newly issued memorandum would allow local law enforcement to participate in the crackdown of undocumented immigrants in the U.S.

Under President Trump’s executive order, local law enforcement have been issued the green light to carry out ICE actions, effective immediately. Although local officers respect state and federal laws, many say their main priority is still the citizens of their town. On Tuesday, Secretary John Kelly issued a memorandum that allows local law enforcement agencies to partner with ICE, giving local officers the power to seek and detain undocumented immigrants. Although the program known as 287(g) is new, police in Yuma, San Luis and Somerton say not much will change. “It’s nothing different than we’ve been doing for years,” Sgt. Lori Franklin said. “Same protocal, we’re been doing for years.” San Luis Police Department Chief of Police said, “Nothing will change from last year,” Craig Higgins said. “We’ve been doing this for years.” Although local police say they respect the federal law, they also say their agencies don’t have the resources to enforce such policies. “I don’t think we have the manpower to enforce it as a priority,” Higgins said. “I recently heard that ICE is increasing their manpower by 10,000, Border Patrol is possibly increasing it by 5,000. So I don’t think there’s a reason for them to ask us for assistance.” Regardless, the program will go into effect immediately, and local law enforcement ensure the public – Their safety comes first.