PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Virginia -- Prince William County police yesterday said 41 of the 89 illegal immigrants encountered last month were arrested but charged only with violating local laws.
Names, addresses and other identifying information on the 89 were given to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials, who could arrange deportations.
The Washington Times and other news media incorrectly reported that all 89 had been charged.
Police Chief Charlie T. Deane emphasized yesterday that county police have nothing to do with enforcing immigration laws. The new procedure, considered to be a first in the country for combining local and federal enforcement, began March 3.
Twenty-one of those identified as illegal immigrants were not charged with local law violations and were released, Chief Deane said.
Posted by tyne at April 3, 2008