Sources of and Solutions to Alien Gang Violence to be Examined
Press Release:
To: Assignment Desk, Daybook Editor
Contact: Jeff Lungren or Terry Shawn, 202-225-2492, both of the House Committee on the Judiciary
In recent years, the number of criminal gangs in the United States has grown, while the gangs themselves have become more vicious and widespread. A significant number of gang members are illegal aliens. In response to the danger posed by one of America’s most violent gangs, MS-13, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) launched “Operation Community Shield.” In support of its goal of dismantling the gang’s organization, ICE has targeted MS-13 members using our nation’s immigration laws. Some local communities have refused to allow their police officers to assist immigration law enforcement agents in the past however — a factor that some complain hinders anti-gang efforts.
Background:
Gangs operate in all 50 states and alien gang violence is no longer just an urban issue. Alien gangs have followed immigrants into rural areas, with attendant increases in violence and drug crimes. Younger gang members are becoming more common. Evidence suggests that alien gangs have begun recruiting children as early as the second grade. Recent news reports have linked gangs in the U.S. to terrorist groups, particularly al-Qaeda.
This Hearing Will:
Examine the role of aliens in gang crime, assess the use of immigration enforcement in controlling alien gangs, and review the hurdles to such enforcement.
Witnesses: Mr. Michael Garcia, Assistant Secretary for ICE; Ms. Marsha Garst, Commonwealth’s Attorney for Rockingham County, Virginia; Ms. Heather MacDonald, Senior Fellow, the Manhattan Institute; and Ms. Mai Fernandez, Chief Operating Officer, Latin American Youth Center.
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