I am writing to thank Sheriff Duke Schirard and local law enforcement for taking action and making the firm decision to stop honoring 48-hour Immigration and Customs Enforcement holds in La Plata County. This is a very welcome action we believe will benefit the building of trust between community and law enforcement. As an organizational member of the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition, Compañeros prioritizes keeping families together in our state by doing our part in the Four Corners region. Compañeros is the only area organization seeking direct contact with law enforcement from all surrounding counties. It is our hope these sheriffs will join Schirard by making public their position.
Together with CIRC, Compañeros is presenting a policy of RESPECT, or reinforcing effective, safe policing and enhancing community trust. Schirard’s adoption of this policy, or even parts of it, will show the community his commitment to family safety, regardless of their immigration status. We welcome cooperation to build on the work started last year with the passage of the Community and Law Enforcement Trust Act. We understand Schirard may be in the process of drafting policy around changes as a result of his decision to no longer honor detainers. We would appreciate an opportunity to offer a community perspective before any policy decisions are made. If anyone would like to help Compañeros or get involved in this issue, call 375-9406. Thanks again to the La Plata County Sheriff’s Office for its decision to uphold constitutional values by not enforcing the 48-hour ICE holds or spending state resources enforcing federal law.
Nicole Mosher, director, Compañeros Four Corners Immigrant Resource Center
Durango
