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Introduction
Hey readers! Welcome to our in-depth exploration of Attorney General Law Enforcement Directive No. 2018-6. In this article, we’ll delve into the intricacies of this directive and its implications for law enforcement practices. Get ready to unpack the nuances and significance of this directive that has shaped the landscape of law enforcement.
In this guide, we’ll cover the directive’s history, key provisions, and its impact on various aspects of law enforcement. We’ll also provide a detailed table breakdown to help you navigate the directive’s complexities. So, let’s dive right in and discover the world of Attorney General Law Enforcement Directive No. 2018-6.
History of Attorney General Law Enforcement Directive No. 2018-6
Attorney General Law Enforcement Directive No. 2018-6 was issued on December 18, 2018, by then-Attorney General Jeff Sessions. This directive superseded the previous directive on immigration enforcement issued in 2017. The directive aimed to establish clear guidelines for federal immigration enforcement, prioritizing the apprehension and removal of undocumented immigrants who pose a threat to public safety or national security.
Key Provisions of Attorney General Law Enforcement Directive No. 2018-6
The directive emphasizes the following key provisions:
- Prioritizing the removal of undocumented immigrants who have committed serious crimes, are gang members, or pose a threat to national security.
- Exercising prosecutorial discretion to focus on cases involving undocumented immigrants who have committed serious crimes or pose a threat to public safety.
- Enhancing coordination between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to identify and apprehend undocumented immigrants who pose a threat.
- Providing guidance on the use of detention and release mechanisms, ensuring that undocumented immigrants who pose a threat are detained and those who do not pose a threat are released.
Impact of Attorney General Law Enforcement Directive No. 2018-6
The directive has had a significant impact on various aspects of law enforcement, including:
Apprehensions and Removals
The directive’s focus on prioritizing the removal of undocumented immigrants who pose a threat has led to an increase in apprehensions and removals. In 2019, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reported a 22% increase in arrests of undocumented immigrants with criminal convictions or gang affiliations.
Detention and Release
The directive provides guidance on the use of detention and release mechanisms, ensuring that undocumented immigrants who pose a threat are detained while those who do not pose a threat are released. This has resulted in a decrease in the number of undocumented immigrants detained in long-term facilities.
Coordination between Law Enforcement Agencies
The directive has enhanced coordination between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in identifying and apprehending undocumented immigrants who pose a threat. This collaboration has led to increased cooperation and sharing of information between agencies.
Table Breakdown of Attorney General Law Enforcement Directive No. 2018-6
| Provision | Description |
|---|---|
| Prioritization of Removal | Focus on removing undocumented immigrants who pose a threat to public safety or national security. |
| Prosecutorial Discretion | Exercise of discretion to focus on cases involving serious crimes or threats to public safety. |
| Inter-Agency Coordination | Enhancement of collaboration between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. |
| Detention and Release | Guidance on using detention and release mechanisms to ensure appropriate detention of high-risk individuals. |
Conclusion
Attorney General Law Enforcement Directive No. 2018-6 has had a profound impact on law enforcement practices, leading to increased apprehensions and removals of undocumented immigrants who pose a threat. The directive has also facilitated better coordination between law enforcement agencies and provided guidance on the use of detention and release mechanisms. We encourage you to explore other articles on our website for more insights into the latest legal developments and their implications for law enforcement.
FAQ about Attorney General Law Enforcement Directive No. 2018-6
What is Attorney General Law Enforcement Directive No. 2018-6?
Answer: It is a directive issued by the Attorney General of the United States on December 12, 2018, that restricts federal law enforcement agencies from deporting certain categories of undocumented immigrants.
Who does the directive protect from deportation?
Answer: It protects undocumented immigrants who:
- Have not been convicted of certain serious crimes
- Do not pose a national security threat
- Have been present in the U.S. for an extended period of time
- Have family ties to U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents
What is the purpose of the directive?
Answer: To promote public safety and trust by focusing enforcement resources on serious criminals and threats, while also protecting certain categories of undocumented immigrants who are not a priority for deportation.
How does the directive affect state and local law enforcement?
Answer: It does not require state and local law enforcement agencies to enforce federal immigration laws. However, they may still cooperate with federal authorities on a case-by-case basis.
What are the potential benefits of the directive?
Answer: Reduced fear and distrust in law enforcement among undocumented immigrants, improved public safety, and greater trust between law enforcement and the community.
What are the potential concerns about the directive?
Answer: Concerns include that it may lead to sanctuary cities where law enforcement does not cooperate with federal immigration authorities and that it may encourage more illegal immigration.
How is the directive being implemented?
Answer: The directive is being implemented gradually through guidance from the Department of Homeland Security and training for law enforcement officers.
Can the directive be challenged in court?
Answer: Yes, it can be challenged in court on various legal grounds, such as whether it is consistent with federal law and the Constitution.
What are the next steps for the directive?
Answer: The directive is likely to face legal challenges and may be modified or rescinded in the future depending on the outcome of those challenges.
How can I learn more about the directive?
Answer: You can access the full text of the directive and related documents on the Department of Justice website.
