April 17, 2008
| Town Smart for Joining 287(g) |
| To the editor: |
| There are many negative things that could be written regarding the candidates running for office in the upcoming election. Each Observer reader has to decide within himself whether to respond in kind or keep quiet when faced with a negative assault on his or her candidates. |
| This attitude tends to distract from the positives and good things that are being accomplished by our present Town Council and mayor. This council has accomplished as least one great thing for our town and really for our country. |
| Two years ago when the current council members were swept into office, you could count on your fingers the number of localities that had immigration enforcement under federal 287(g) guidelines. This year state legislatures proposed more than 1,400 bills to combat illegal immigration, and many communities have followed the leadership of out town by enacting local ordinances. |
| Detainers take criminals and felons off our streets. For that we are grateful. Establishment of 287(g) by this council stands in stark contrast to the undermining words and recorded work of mayoral candidate Harlon Reece, who said "we need to study this further." |
| He finally did reluctantly vote for establishment. 287(g) enforcement has been a great tool helping our town. Our accolades go to the council and mayoral candidates and Herndon Police Department for establishing this program. |
| David Hartnett |
| Herndon |
© Copyright 2000-2008 The Herndon Publishing Company, Inc.
Call The Observer at 703-437-5886 or e-mail the editor.
Call The Observer at 703-437-5886 or e-mail the editor.