“Hold for Immigration”

Atlanta Journal Constitution: Gwinnett News
If you are as big of a fan of ScanGwinnett.com as I am, you will have undoubtedly noticed the use of the phrase “Hold for Immigration” on some of those admitted to the Gwinnett County Detention Center.

Some of the people being held for immigration include about 48 individuals who, combined, accounted for 42 separate violations from January 19, 2009 through January 24, in zip codes 30071, 30092 and 30093.

There were 28 driving or vehicle related arrests totaling 64 violations. The biggest violations were either not having a valid license or none at all (31 violations.) There were also 3 DUIs, and 3 with no insurance (1 did not have proof of insurance).

Aren’t you gonna feel safe driving to work now?

Speaking of safety… there were a number of real (sarcasm) winners (/sarcasm) in the same time frame. There were 6 different types of violent arrests (7 total violations) ranging from battery, assault, disorderly conduct and even cruelty to children.

There were nine violations of individuals who were arrested for either violation of probation or failure to appear.

One particular gentlemen you will all be interested in was arrested for all of the following: – False Identification Documents – Purchase/Possession of Alcohol (under 21) – DUI .02 under 21 yrs old – No Drivers License – Knowingly Driving with Suspended Registration – Driving on the wrong side of the road

(eye roll)

This is not 287g in action but it is a “surge” by ICE officials at the Gwinnett County Detention Center that will run through January. It may give us glimpse into what we may expect to see once 287g is up and running in full force.

I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to follow up with Sheriff Butch Conway and gather details to do my civic duty and provide you all with an update on where Gwinnett County is with the implementation of 287g.

If you will recall, last I wrote about the program there were a series of tasks on Gwinnett’s To-Do list before they could be accepted into the program. The application, staffing additions and changes to conditions at the detention center to name a few.

While there are still some To-Do’s left, Sheriff Conway informs me that they are waiting on the acceptance and the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding. Once that has taken place, the assigned deputies will receive about 4 to 5 weeks of training by ICE and the program will be underway.

They are projecting thousands of detainees once the program is up and running – this year.