“When we make that arrest for public intoxication, DUI or leaving the scene of a crime, if we can’t identify that person then it becomes apparent to us that they are an illegal immigrant.”
by B. Jay Johnson
When it comes to illegal immigration, in many ways, the hands of local law enforcement are tied.
They can arrest someone suspected of being in this country illegally, but what happens to that suspect after he or she is taken into custody relies on the criminal justice system.
Cleveland City (Tennessee) Police Chief Wes Snyder says there is no question that we are seeing an increase in the immigrant population here in Bradley County.
Chief Snyder says he is also seeing an increase in the arrests of suspected illegal aliens.
“When they don’t have any form of identification,” says Chief Snyder, “and they’re operating a vehicle without a driver’s license, chances are they are here illegally.” “When we make that arrest for public intoxication, DUI or leaving the scene of a crime, if we can’t identify that person then it becomes apparent to us that they are an illegal immigrant.”
Chief Snyder uses the word “immigrant” instead of “alien” but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t take the problem seriously.
In fact, Snyder expresses frustration at the way the criminal justice system processes illegal immigrants.
“There is not a lot we can do at the local level,” the police chief tells the Bradley News. “Federal authorities have to take an interest in the person we arrest. If they don’t, there is nothing in the world, whether it’s county or city law enforcement, there is nothing we can do about it.”
Chief Snyder states emphatically that the United States of America, without a doubt, has the best criminal justice system in the world. But is it flawless? “No,” says Snyder.
“Unfortunately, our justice system has enough legal cracks and illegal immigrants are falling through those cracks,” continues the police chief.
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