Undocumenteds Sue for U Visas

A group of undocumented immigrants, represented by Peter Schey, who were victims of violent crimes sued DHS on Tuesday, demanding that immigration authorities issue them U visas for cooperating with law enforcement. Under 2000 legislation, undocumented immigrants are eligible for U visas if they help law enforcement agencies in the investigation or prosecution of some crimes, including rape, domestic violence, murder and human trafficking. The visas would enable them to work and live in the U.S. without fear of deportaiton and to apply for LPR status after 3 years.

The suit was filed in Los Angeles on behalf of plaintiffs from California, Arizona, and Texas. A USCIS spokesman acknowledged that none of the special U visas have been issued anywhere in the U.S. because DHS is still working out procedures.

Source: Los Angeles Times, Oct. 19, 2005
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