Denver approves local sentencing changes aimed at helping immigrants avoid deportation
Jon Murray of the Denver Post reports that the Denver City Council has approved reform of low-level city court sentences by lessening some maximum penalties in a way that could help immigrants avoid deportation.
Some immigrant advocates had pushed for the council to take further steps to more fully insulate immigrants from federal immigration enforcement efforts because of the violation of local ordinances. One way would be to make the maximum penalty for all local violations 364 days. A number of council members supported alterations but could not win enough support.
Mayor Michael B. Hancock released the following statement regarding Denver City Council’s unanimous vote to pass sentencing reform.
“I want to thank Denver City Council for their vote tonight on our sentencing reform ordinance.
“This ordinance takes two critical steps. One, it helps to keep families together by ensuring low level offenses, like park curfew, are not a deportation tool. With this ordinance, we will ensure punishment fits the severity of the offense — not just for our immigrant communities but for all our people including those experiencing homelessness. Two, for the first time in Denver’s history, the city will be able to act swiftly to prosecute those who commit hate crimes. Together, we are sending a clear message that we will not sacrifice our values or bend to a broken immigration system.
“Over the past four months, the White House has issued a series of executive orders that have exacerbated our broken immigration system and have had a real impact on our community. I have heard from many who are rightfully concerned. Denver is committed to taking actions that will protect our people’s rights and keep our city safe, welcoming and open.
“This is not about shielding violent people and I will not play political games with the safety of our community. This is about protecting the rights and livelihoods of our people and I will make every effort to take well-thought actions to protect all our people and their families – that will always include immigrants and refugees in Denver, Colorado.”
KJ