Concerns over Special Order 40
Several immigrant rights groups Monday decried proposed changes in Special Order 40 to target illegal immigrants in criminal gangs, saying any move to change the rule in such a way would single out minorities and weaken civil liberties. Daily News.
Members of the Mexican American Political Association, Labor Community Strategy Center and Hermandad Mexicana said the long-standing rule has been effective in encouraging immigrants to report crimes, and existing laws are sufficient to deal with criminals.
"Our concern is that the gang database now includes anyone who police think is a gang member, without verification," said Manuel Criollo, a spokesman for the Labor Community Strategy Center.