Livingston County proposes tracking of undocumented immigrants

Recently, Livingston County's Courts, Public Safety and Infrastructure Development Committee unanimously passed a resolution urging law enforcement to monitor interactions with undocumented immigrants. Commissioner Wes Nakagiri emphasized the need for proactive measures to prevent potential crises, although he admitted to lacking specific data on the undocumented population in the county. Critics, including Judy Daubenmier, chair of the Livingston County Democrats, argue that the resolution promotes fear without evidence, labeling it as fearmongering. Miriam Aukerman from the ACLU of Michigan raised concerns about the implications of local police enforcing complex immigration laws, warning that it could lead to racial profiling and legal liabilities for the county. She highlighted the importance of trust between communities and law enforcement, suggesting that fear of immigration enforcement could deter individuals from reporting crimes or acting as witnesses. The resolution has sparked a debate about the balance between public safety and the rights of undocumented immigrants. While some officials believe tracking interactions is necessary for future planning, others fear it could create a less safe environment by alienating immigrant communities. As the situation unfolds, the lack of concrete data on undocumented immigrants in Livingston County raises questions about the motivations behind the resolution and its potential impact on community relations. The ongoing discourse reflects broader national tensions surrounding immigration policy and local law enforcement's role in addressing these issues.