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287(g) – Immigration Enforcement Program Fails in More Ways Than One

AILA Doc. No. 10102630 | Dated October 26, 2010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Tuesday, October 26, 2010

CONTACT:
George Tzamaras
202-507-7649
gtzamaras@aila.org

AILA Once Again Calls upon Secretary Napolitano and Congress to End the 287(g) Program

WASHINGTON, DC – A report released Friday by the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General (OIG)—the second this year—found gross deficiencies and lack of oversight in the federal immigration enforcement program known as "287(g)," which allows local law enforcement officers to enforce federal immigration laws.

Earlier this year, the inspector general’s first report regarding the 287(g) program came out with 33 recommendations. The critical nature of that report led the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) to call for DHS to terminate the program. Now seven months later, this follow-up report has noted that 28 of those 33 recommendations are not remedied yet.

"Enough is enough. With this OIG follow-up report, DHS has shown it cannot bring this failed program into compliance. Over and over again it is being documented that 287(g) simply doesn’t work and what better proof than an internal review that points out that the program is rife with problems," said David Leopold, President of AILA. "Its indefensible that, seven months after the OIG issued a scathing report, ICE still cannot verify that the 287(g) program is operating correctly or that it is using its funding as directed by Congress. The 287(g) remains deficient in supervision and oversight and just isn’t good for America."

"Everyday that this program continues, DHS is eroding American values. A program like this severely undermines communities' faith in those charged with protecting us and keeping our streets, communities, and businesses safe."

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The American Immigration Lawyers Association is the national association of immigration lawyers established to promote justice, advocate for fair and reasonable immigration law and policy, advance the quality of immigration and nationality law and practice, and enhance the professional development of its members.

Cite as AILA Doc. No. 10102630.