A national group that says it monitors and counters threats to our constitutional rights and promotes government transparency and constitutional government honored the Wells, Maine, police chief earlier this month for her “outstanding commitment to upholding the rule of law and protecting citizens,” the American Constitutional Rights Union (ACRU) said in a statement on July 3.
Wells Police Chief Jo-Ann Putnam is the recipient of the ACRU’s ‘Defender Award’ for exceptional leadership, the group said. Wells is currently the only Maine municipality that has an active working agreement with the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, though other towns and cities like Rockland are looking into joining its ranks.
“This law enforcement agency exemplifies what it means to be a true defender of the law,” said Col. Allen West, Executive Director of ACRU.
“This award acknowledges their leadership and dedication to preserving American citizens’ rights to safety and security through their partnership with the 287(g) program. All law enforcement agencies should take note and follow this lead to fully embrace the authorization afforded to designated officers through these models. Well done,” Col. West added.
According to ICE, a clear legal framework exists for such cooperation.
“The Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 added Section 287(g) to the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) — authorizing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to delegate to state and local law enforcement officers the authority to perform specified immigration officer functions under the agency’s direction and oversight…The 287(g) Program enhances the safety and security of our nation’s communities by allowing ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) to partner with state and local law enforcement,” the agency said in a statement.
