A federal program could be the newest crime prevention tool in keeping the community safe, according to Bensalem’s top cop. But, members of the public told the township council Monday they fear it would be a divisive element that could lead to distrust in law enforcement and a potential for racial profiling.
Those were just two interpretations of the controversial 287(g) program, which deputizes local police officers as U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE) agents, that emerged during the council meeting. It was standing room only inside with dozens more chanting and watching the proceedings from the lobby as a large group of passionate detractors urged officials not to bring the program to Bensalem.
“We should be welcoming these refugees with open arms ... remembering the plight and struggle of our forefathers,” Bensalem resident Melanie Goldstein said to loud applause during public comment. “I don’t understand why local police need to do a federal agency’s work. Think of the fear that 287(g) puts into the immigrant community.”
The program has been pushed by the Trump administration, and township Director of Public Safety Fred Harran has been advocating for Bensalem police to become the first department in the state to join. Federal immigration officials have also reached out to other area departments, such as Plumstead and Warminster, to gauge interest in participating.
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Our towns should be "safe havens" to counteract the federal government's push to cleanse us of the "huddled masses yearning to breathe free."
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