Focus on a Safer Community-Not Immigration Enforcement

Throughout  my campaign, I have been asked how I will address immigration issues in Carroll County.  I’d like to address that question.

 First and foremost the job of the Sheriff is to alleviate fear, not instill it. 

If elected, I will not allow dangerous criminals to be released out into the streets of our community. However, it is not the responsibility of the Carroll County Sheriff’s office to act as an extension of Immigration Officers. As the law states, if a person is arrested that has a criminal warrant, then the appropriate jurisdiction will be contacted to take custody of that subject. Issues of immigration are a civil matter, and not the responsibility of a local jurisdiction. 

I have always stated that I have concerns for officers operating beyond their responsibilities. When federal agents come into a community, they leave. Members of the Carroll County Sheriff’s office are subject to Maryland state law and will be subject to any consequences of their actions. 

 Detention centers should house serious offenders.  Offenders that should not be released back into the public.  It doesn’t matter if they are immigrants or American citizens.  If they are a danger to society they should not be released back into the public to create new victims.  These criminals should be prioritized in any detention center, either new or existing, to complete their full sentence instead of being released early due to overcrowding to house less violent offenders.

I do not mean to take anything away from those families whose family members were murdered by individuals who have entered the country illegally.  I realize the pain of losing a loved one never leaves.  However, these cases are discussed every time someone wants to emphasize crimes committed by immigrants.  These cases always seem to stay in the spotlight while we lose sight of other murders committed by American citizens.  

The National Institute of Justice funded a study that advised that undocumented immigrants are arrested at less than half the rate of native born US citizens for violent crimes and a ¼ the rate of native born citizens for property crimes.  

Most undocumented immigrants are trying to stay under the radar and provide for their families, hoping for a better life in this country.

As Sheriff, my priority will be to arrest people in our community that are committing crimes, regardless of their immigration status. To solve real problems within our community. At some point we need to mend the divide in this country and come together to start making stronger communities and life better for everyone.