County changes policy on illegal immigrants

County changes policy on illegal immigrants

Tools

Story Published: Sep 23, 2007 at 7:48 PM PDT

Story Updated: Sep 24, 2007 at 12:01 AM PDT

By Susan Harding and Associated Press

Video

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) - Clackamas County has reported more foreign-born drunken drivers to immigration authorities in the past month than in the previous 18 months combined.

The crackdown began the day The Oregonian newspaper reported that authorities missed a chance to deport an illegal immigrant from Mexico who was convicted in November 2006 of driving drunk.

Eight months later, Alejandro Rivera Gamboa was accused of killing 15-year-old Dani Countryman in Milwaukie.

The policy changes in Clackamas County reflect public outrage over the killing and a new push by federal immigration authorities to enlist Oregon's jails in identifying those who violate immigration laws.

The Oregon State Sheriff's Association says that across Oregon, jails are making more referrals to immigration authorities.

Oregon law prohibits local law enforcement agencies from actively looking for illegal immigrants - but the law does not stop police or prosecutors from reporting people after they're arrested.

Weather & Traffic

Icon
Current Temp 89.0 °F
A Few Clouds
Video
More Weather

Resources and info you need to prepare for the switch to DTV.

Stay Connected

YouNews

This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

Viewer Poll

How has Facebook changed your life?

  • I got a job through Facebook
  • I hooked up with old college/high school friends
  • It's how our family keeps in touch / updated
  • I learned odd new things about my friends
  • It's helped my business
  • I'm still on the fence about using it

Marketplace