Opinion

Let sheriff do his job, ICE do theirs

Posted October 10, 2011 5:00 am

Mayor Ron Craig of Hanover Park should not be blamed for his misreading of the Cook County ordinance that tells the federal government to stop using County resources to detain immigrants. There is a lot of misinformation out there. The truth is that the ordinance sets up five separate safeguards to protect citizens from truly dangerous criminals.

First, prosecutors and judges can set high bail or no bail for anyone who poses a danger (including taking account of immigration status). Second, all criminals who are convicted of crimes go to prison where ICE is waiting. Third, the sheriff has discretion in cases where there is a “legitimate law enforcement” purpose.

Fourth, ICE can pick up anyone they want after they post bond. And fifth, if ICE really thought we were in danger, all they have to do is reimburse Cook County taxpayers.

Like Mayor Craig, I’m also concerned about our safety. That’s why I want ICE to do their job, instead of leeching off Cook County’s strapped resources. Let Sheriff Tom Dart, and all our local law enforcement, focus on keeping our streets clean — not doing ICE’s job for them.

Stephen Smith

Chicago

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