ICE Billboards With Wanted Immigrants Called Misinformation and #FakeNews
ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) posted billboards in North Carolina with photos and of undocumented immigrants who were accused of crimes but released by local judges. The billboards claim that the local sheriff released the accused immigrants despite the fact that they were listed in federal immigration detainers. ICE paid for the 5 billboard advertisements on interstate highways outside of Charlotte.
ICE Launches Billboard Campaign In North Carolina
Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden said the billboards are “misinformation” and “fake news” because the men were released by the local court system, and it was not the decision of the sheriff’s office. In addition, McFadden said if ICE wanted the men detained, they should have gotten a court order.
In a press release, ICE said they launched the billboard campaign to educate the public about the dangers of non-cooperation policies:
“When law enforcement agencies fail to honor immigration detainers and release serious criminal offenders onto the streets, it undermines ICE’s ability to protect public safety and carry out its mission. ICE will continue to enforce immigration laws set forth by Congress through the efforts of the men and women of ICE to remove criminal aliens and making our communities safer.”
Charges Are Not Convictions
Chicago immigration and criminal defense attorney Mario Godoy said charges are not convictions:
“The ICE billboards fuel negative perceptions about immigrants. Charges are not convictions. Many innocent people are charged with crimes, and later found to be not guilty or the charges are dropped. The campaign in North Carolina is intended to increase public fears about immigration.”
Illinois Criminal Defense and Immigration Attorney
A criminal offense or charge can impact your immigration status. At Godoy Law Office, we have a team of immigration lawyers who are also experienced criminal defense attorneys. If you retain our defense team, we can use a variety of methods to protect you. Please contact our office at 855-554-6369.
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