This week, the U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against the State of New Mexico and the City of Albuquerque over policies the department says obstruct federal immigration enforcement. [Insert Graphic Here]
The lawsuit challenges both New Mexico’s Immigrant Safety Act and Albuquerque’s “Safer Community Places Ordinance.” According to the DOJ, these policies restrict cooperation between local governments and federal immigration authorities and limit the use of government property for enforcement activity.
Public safety should remain a priority for every elected official. Families want safe neighborhoods, secure communities, and law enforcement agencies that can work together effectively when serious crimes occur. New Mexicans should not be placed in the middle of political fights between local, state, and federal officials while basic concerns about crime and community safety continue to grow.
Compassion and public safety are not mutually exclusive. Strong communities require both.
Read the press release from the Justice Department HERE.