Utah prison officials may be pressed into service to enforce new laws that cut off undocumented immigrants from state services. In a story for the Salt Lake Tribune, Steve Gehrke writes that the state lacks enough staff to enforce immigration reform laws and is considering "cross--deputizing" the probation and parole agents to double as immigration enforcers.
Jails around the state already use a prisoner's citizenship status to determine whether that person has access to education, employment or counseling services while behind bars.
But it can take up to a year for Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers to determine a prisoner's status and arrange for post-release deportation. Cross-deputizing deputies would allow such determinations to happen more quickly, but opponents of the plan argue prison staff are already swamped with their own work loads.
The story you just read is only possible because readers like you support our mission to uncover truths that matter. If you value this reporting, help us continue producing high-impact investigations that drive real-world change. Your donation today ensures we can keep asking tough questions and bringing critical issues to light. Join us — because fearless, independent journalism depends on you!
Substance use and mental health disorders are driving more maternal deaths in Oregon than any other cause
Get the inside scoop in your inbox, free.
Subscribe to our weekly newsletters and never miss an investigation.
TRIPLE your gift today!
From now until Dec. 31, NewsMatch and a generous local donor will each match community donations, matching your new monthly donation 12 times or TRIPLE your new one-time gift, all up to $1,000.
