After the passage of a new, statewide immigration enforcement statute, the state of Iowa is now in the sights of the Department of Justice. This comes at a time when the clock is ticking down on the possibility of a federal lawsuit being filed against the state.
Legislation passed by the state enables state and local law enforcement agencies the authority to charge and arrest unauthorized immigrants in the state of Iowa.
According to law enforcement officials in north Iowa, the legislation should not significantly alter the way they conduct their operations; but, they are aware that new challenges will arise throughout the summer.
The situation is currently deemed to be a crisis because thousands of migrants cross the border between the United States and Mexico every single day. Back in Iowa, however, Governor Kim Reynolds, who is a Republican, is taking measures to crack down on illegal immigration.
Attorney Kevin Pals, the sheriff of Cerro Gordo County, stated, “I believe what the legislators are trying to do is send a strong message, we welcome immigrants, but we want them to do it the legal way.”
According to a portion of the statement that Governor Reynolds issued, “The only reason we had to pass this law is because the Biden Administration refuses to enforce the law that is already on the books for enforcement.”
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“I believe there may be situations where it is appropriate to file this charge publicly, such as when someone who is in the country illegally and has been deported commits another crime. This can be done to make a statement.” “Do not return here and engage in these activities,” stated Mason City Police Chief Jeff Brinkley.
Law enforcement in northern Iowa is getting ready for that law to become official, but Sheriff Pals and Chief Brinkley say both departments will continue to operate in the same way.
“The law doesn’t make many changes to our practices.” Sheriff Pals stated that we are not specifically searching for illegal immigrants, as we are also focused on apprehending other individuals who have violated the law.
“I think it’s difficult for us to be a good partner to federal law enforcement partners in our community,” said Chief Brinkley. “I’m not sure if it’s our responsibility, duty, or purpose to make sure this law is followed.”
Officials say they don’t encounter undocumented immigrants frequently. They also don’t want this new law to damage their relationship with the diverse communities they serve.
“Our aim is to connect with the community on their terms.” We want people to feel at ease when interacting with our officers. I want people to feel confident in trusting our police officers. Chief Brinkley said, “I want them to know that we are telling them the truth.”
“Sheriff Pals believes that while there may be some criminals crossing the border, most of the people crossing are not intending to cause harm,” said Sheriff Pals.
The deadline for Iowa officials to agree to not enforce the law is on Tuesday. However, according to Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird, as of Friday, it is unlikely that Iowa will agree to the federal terms.
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