From 2017-2019 the League of Women Voters of Klamath County engaged in a study of local issues surrounding immigration and criminal justice in Klamath County. A number of sources were interviewed, and a complete report has now been prepared. Here is its introduction:
In January 2017, LWVKC Board discussed immigration issues, especially regarding DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) people, as a result of national news.
In September, 2017, they again addressed the question of DACA recipients in Klamath County, based on a meeting with the ROP (Rural Organizing Project), in which the question was raised about how to help local Latinx migrants. Attendees at that meeting
a) sought to find out about ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) work in Klamath County,
b) wanted to hold local law enforcement accountable for sanctuary state behavior, and
c) wanted to make sure that policies were in place that would respect the constitutional rights of all migrants.
The LWVKC Board took this issue as a study focus in May, 2018, because there were new concerns regarding the well being of the Klamath County Latinx. The study proceeded based on the LWV US position on immigration, which states “Immigration policies should promote reunification of immediate families; meet economic, business and employment needs; and be responsive to those facing political persecution or humanitarian crises”.
Over the next 15 months, various Board members interviewed eight members of the local law enforcement system and others involved in affairs of the Latinx community in Klamath County. As it became apparent that there was no local need for immediate help for DACA recipients, the focus of inquiry shifted from DACA recipients to a broader look at how the justice and immigration system for both adults and juveniles plays out in the Latinx community and the community at large in Klamath County.
Here is the conclusion:
General Conclusions
All informants discussed the difficulty in managing crime, punishment, drug abuse, and mental health issues and indicated that the Latinx population in particular is more difficult to manage based on lack of English skills. All parties stressed that immigration status in not a factor in the way agencies interact with the public or their charges, despite the fact that some in the Latinx community perceive otherwise.
Everyone pointed to a lack of adequate funding and manpower in their agencies, a common complaint. They sounded genuine in their desire to improve the justice system from their agency’s perspective. It is clear that these various agencies partner together very well to use available resources.
Read the complete report HERE.
Read the Herald and News summary article HERE.