What role should local police agencies play in the enforcement of federal immigration law? The controversial “Section 287(g)” of the Immigration and Nationality Act allows the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to delegate federal immigration enforcement authority to state and local law enforcement agencies.

Critics of Section 287(g) say the program lacks oversight and has become an avenue for human rights abuses across the United States. Now, a report from DHS’s own Office of Inspector General agrees.

Maria talks with Clarissa Martinez who directs Immigration and National Campaigns for the National Council of La Raza about the report and its implications for ICE and for local police authorities.

Right-click here to download an .mp3 of this segment.

Read the report: The Performance of 287(g) Agreements [.pdf]

Watch an episode of NOW on PBS focusing on local enforcement of Federal Immigration Law, including Maria’s interview with Sheriff Joe Arpaio. [link will open PBS website / video requires Flash.]