Police walk a thin line of liability when making our communities safe, and Monday’s decision to uphold the “papers please” provision of Arizona SB 1070 has law enforcement in the state confused about how to enforce the law, and fearful they will be sued.
Pima County Sherriff Clarence Dupnik, said in an interview, “We are going to get sued if we do, we are going to get sued if we don’t. That’s a terrible position to put law enforcement in.” Dupnik and other Arizona law enforcement agents have long opposed the provision which requires police to inquire about the legal status of people they stop or detain and suspect of being an illegal immigrant.
Law enforcement says that the new law will actually cost tax payers more since they will now have to detain people for minor infractions which would normally only warrant a citation.
Another issue is the possibility of straining ties with the Latino community by discouraging cooperation with police when investigating crimes.
Although the Justices upheld the contentious provision it could still face legal challenges, a door the Supreme Court didn’t close.
Legal immigration is a long and arduous process so it shouldn’t be surprising that people enter the country undocumented. But, as laws get tougher, immigrants looking for a better life can end up in a detention facility, awaiting deportation unless they allow an immigration attorney to get them the necessary documents.
The United States has one of the most liberal immigration policies in the western world and allows a million people a year to become citizens. Taking the legal route to naturalization can be simplified with the representation of an immigration lawyer.
Temporary work or HB-1 visas are available and more easily obtained with the help of an immigration attorney. Visas are the first step in becoming a legal resident and realizing the dream of a better life.
