Maryland Sheriff Raises Concerns Over New Sanctuary Law Impacting Illegal Immigrants

<p>Harford County Sheriff Jeffrey Gahler expressed concerns regarding Maryland's new sanctuary law, stating it may lead to the release of individuals he considers dangerous back into the community. Gahler articulated his fears during testimony before a House Judiciary subcommittee, emphasizing that the law could increase crime rates and result in more victims.</p><p>Gahler is part of a coalition of 16 sheriffs representing two-thirds of Maryland's counties, who are challenging the Community Trust Act through a lawsuit. He highlighted that the law could compel correctional officers to release individuals flagged by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as public safety threats.</p><p>The sheriff stated, "I don’t want to have to open the jail door and say, ‘Welcome back to Harford County. Go victimize. Let’s create some more victims.’" He indicated that if someone released under the law commits another crime, the responsibility would lie with the elected officials who enacted the restrictions.</p><p>Gahler noted that he testified to provide lawmakers with insights from law enforcement, accusing state officials of prioritizing political interests over public safety. He stated, "I think they understand. I think they don’t care," referring to those who support the law.</p><p>He cited two families affected by crimes committed by illegal immigrants, emphasizing that their tragedies should not be politicized. Gahler criticized the lack of outreach from lawmakers to the victims' families after such incidents.</p><p>The Community Trust Act limits the circumstances under which Maryland authorities can inquire about individuals' immigration status or notify ICE of their custody. Governor Wes Moore allowed the measure to become law without his signature, with his administration asserting that Maryland will not be a sanctuary for criminals.</p><p>Rhyan Lake, a Senior Communications Strategist for Governor Moore, stated that the administration is focused on reducing violent crime and ensuring public safety while also protecting the rights of individuals.</p><p>Gahler and the other sheriffs argue that the law undermines a previously established partnership with ICE, which allowed for the safe transfer of individuals flagged for deportation while already in custody. He emphasized that his department does not conduct immigration raids but works collaboratively with federal partners.</p><p>Gahler described the opposition to the 287(g) program as politically motivated rather than based on public safety concerns. He compared Maryland's situation to California's, suggesting both states are enacting policies that favor offenders over victims.</p><p>He also connected his advocacy to the upcoming 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, arguing that the Community Trust Act hinders effective communication among law enforcement agencies, a lesson learned from the tragedy.</p><p>Gahler concluded by stating that unless state leaders reconsider their stance, more families may face similar tragedies, urging that the focus should be on preventing crime committed by individuals in the country illegally.</p>