An investigation led by New York State Attorney General Letitia James is currently examining two county sheriff’s departments to determine if they have violated civil rights in their interactions with federal immigration authorities. This inquiry, which is part of a broader initiative by the attorney general’s Law Enforcement Misconduct Investigative Office established in June 2020 following nationwide calls for police reform, involves the Nassau County Sheriff’s Department and the Oswego County Sheriff’s Office.
As disclosed in recent letters issued to both sheriffs, the investigation seeks to review any possible transgressions related to immigration enforcement actions taken by these departments over the past several months. The Nassau County department operates a correctional facility but does not patrol roads, while the Oswego County office handles both duties.
The attorney general’s office is requesting a wide array of documents related to immigration enforcement, including any agreements with federal agencies such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Specific information requested includes activity logs, traffic stop reports, and any detainer requests related to individuals suspected of immigration violations.
During a recent conference call with several New York sheriffs, Oswego County Sheriff Don Hilton mentioned that his department has not been heavily involved in immigration-related investigations lately and expressed uncertainty regarding the basis of the attorney general’s inquiry. His comments reflect a broader concern among local officials about the complexity and implications of cooperation with federal immigration efforts.
Governor Kathy Hochul, during a congressional hearing, emphasized her administration’s policies allow state law enforcement to collaborate with federal officials on criminal investigations involving individuals with state criminal convictions or immigration offenses.
This investigation comes against the backdrop of changed immigration enforcement policies in New York, highlighting the tension between state and federal approaches. Earlier this year, the state attorney general’s guidance for law enforcement reiterated that cooperation with federal immigration authorities should typically involve a judicial warrant, a stance that appears to conflict with some state policies allowing agency collaboration in certain circumstances.
As the investigation unfolds, law enforcement agencies will need to navigate these intricate legal and ethical landscapes, balancing cooperation with federal authorities against the rights of individuals. The outcome may provide clarity and set important precedents for future interactions between state and federal immigration enforcement efforts.
Overall, the inquiry signifies an ongoing commitment to ensure civil rights are upheld in all aspects of law enforcement, especially as it relates to sensitive issues such as immigration. This can be seen as a hopeful step towards fostering accountability and transparency within law enforcement agencies in New York.