Prince William County officials said yesterday that 89 illegal immigrants were arrested in the first month of a program that gave police officers federal training on how to deal with illegals.
Most of the arrests were for misdemeanor offenses, Police Chief Charlie T. Deane told the Board of County Supervisors, which in July voted in favor of the enforcement program.
The program allows police to make arrests on charges of county law violations, then hold suspects if the officers find “probable cause” to think they are in the country illegally.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement then takes charge and can deport the illegal immigrant.
Enforcement began March 3.
Officers responding to calls arrested 34, while 33 were arrested after being stopped for traffic violations. Thirteen were arrested because of suspicious circumstances, and three because they were involved with a “suspicious vehicle.”
One was arrested on a warrant and the others were arrested for various reasons.
Chief Deane said ICE agents have trained 525 police officers and 21 civilians. The police department also has a Criminal Alien Unit, consisting of six officers and one resident, that focuses on more serious crimes, including false identifications and gang investigations.
The program has been praised as one of the most ambitious across the country on addressing the issue of illegal immigration. Critics say it will result in racial profiling. County officials insist that police will not target illegal immigrants for arrest.
Others say the program has forced residents to leave the county, including legal immigrants who fear being targeted.
Chief Deane was praised by residents and most board members, in part for conducting 77 meetings with communities and organizations to explain the enforcement.
However, board Chairman Corey A. Stewart, who has led efforts to crack down on illegals, was criticized by residents for publicly criticizing Chief Deane for meeting late last month with the Mexican Embassy’s consul general.
“We have 100 percent support for Chief Charlie Deane,” said Hilda Bara, who recently retired after 20 years on the board.
“You have created hate,” she said, glaring at Mr. Stewart, a Republican. Then, she urged him to “redeem our credibility.”
Mr. Stewart praised Chief Deane at the end of his report, saying, “You have done a phenomenal job.”
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