A bill that would require North Carolina sheriffs to comply with federal agents’ requests to pick up jail inmates believed to be in the country illegally has advanced in the state legislature. The bill, which has already passed the House and a Senate committee, would mandate that sheriffs hold inmates accused of violent felonies or some misdemeanors for up to 48 hours if Immigration and Customs Enforcement issues a detainer. Supporters of the bill argue that it will make communities safer by removing criminal offenders from the streets.
However, opponents of the bill, including lawyers, activists, and small business owners, have raised concerns about its impact on North Carolina’s immigrant community. They argue that the legislation could make immigrants feel unsafe and unwelcome, while also raising serious constitutional concerns about due process violations. Some sheriffs, primarily Democrats from urban counties, have resisted compliance with detainer requests, leading to calls for legislation to ensure cooperation between law enforcement agencies.
The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Destin Hall, argues that it is common sense for law enforcement to cooperate with each other. He believes that failures to contact federal immigration officers about inmates have led to instances where these individuals were later released and went on to commit more crimes. Sheriffs who support the legislation, like Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page, believe that it would help remove criminal offenders from communities and make them safer. However, critics argue that the bill interferes with local decision-making and erodes trust in law enforcement.
Despite opposition from some sheriffs, the bill is expected to move forward in the state legislature. If passed by the full Senate and House, it will be sent to Democratic Governor Roy Cooper’s desk for approval. If the bill were to become law, those who believe a sheriff or jail administrator is not abiding by the legislation could file a complaint with the state Attorney General’s Office, which could then take action to ensure compliance. While some details of the bill may still need to be ironed out, supporters are hopeful that it will be voted on this week and ultimately signed into law.
