NW Kentucky News

Subcommittee on Federal Law Enforcement Chairman Clay Higgins (R-La.) recently opened a hearing focused on enhancing coordination among federal, state, and local authorities to combat criminal illegal aliens. In his remarks, Higgins underscored the importance of collaboration between federal immigration officials and local law enforcement agencies to ensure public safety.

Higgins expressed concern about violent foreign gangs operating within the United States and emphasized Congress's role in equipping law enforcement with the necessary tools to address transnational criminal organizations. "Throughout this Congress, we will tackle these issues and ensure President Trump has all the tools and resources to address rampant crime," he stated.

He also highlighted the challenges posed by criminal illegal aliens, particularly those affiliated with cartels. He noted that such groups have contributed significantly to the influx of illegal fentanyl into the country, resulting in numerous fatalities. Higgins criticized previous border policies for their perceived ineffectiveness and commended President Trump's efforts to enhance coordination through programs like 287(g).

"President Trump is using the 287(g) program...to increase coordination between local law enforcement and ICE," said Higgins. The program's expansion in Florida was cited as an example of recent efforts to strengthen partnerships between local sheriffs' offices and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Higgins acknowledged past difficulties faced by law enforcement due to what he described as weak executive branch policies but expressed optimism about current initiatives aimed at securing borders and combating criminal activities. "Thanks be to God and the American people, those policies ended abruptly on January 20th," he remarked.

The hearing aimed to explore further strategies for apprehending criminal illegal aliens and dismantling transnational criminal networks. Higgins concluded by expressing eagerness to hear from witnesses about potential measures for improving border security and ensuring justice against these threats.