Panel still weighing Phoenix migrant policy

Phoenix waits to hear enforcement advice

Casey Newton
The Arizona Republic
Dec. 31, 2007 12:00 AM

With the whole city waiting for its recommendations, the panel reviewing Phoenix's controversial immigration-enforcement policy says it needs more time.

The panel, formed by Mayor Phil Gordon earlier this month to discuss changes to police Operations Order 1.4, expects to complete its work by mid- to late January. The operations order prevents police in most cases from asking people about their immigration status.

Under the current policy, most people who commit traffic violations or misdemeanors are not questioned about their immigration status. Some groups, including the police union and several members of the Phoenix City Council, have said officers should have more discretion about when officers can call ICE.

Critics of changing the policy say it would distract police from pursuing violent criminals and could lead to racial profiling.