Safe Horizon Response to Governor Cuomo's Announcement Suspending Participation in Federal Secure Communities Program

Posted on: Thursday, June 2, 2011

Keywords: Safe Horizon, Federal Secure Communities Programs, Community Programs, Governor, Cuomo

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Thursday, June 02, 2011 - Safe Horizon applauds Wednesday's decision to suspend New York State's participation in the Secure Communities Program pending further review. Immigration status should not be a barrier to contacting law enforcement for immediate help.

Unfortunately, in domestic violence cases it is not unusual for the police to arrest both parties in a dispute. Under Secure Communities, undocumented victims of domestic violence might hesitate to call for help if the arrest itself can trigger immigration proceedings. Wednesday's decision means victims of crime can call the police without fear of deportation, regardless of their immigration status.

We thank Governor Cuomo for his willingness to re-evaluate the State's participation in this program.

About Safe Horizon

Safe Horizon is the nation’s leading victim assistance organization and serves over 250,000 people each year who have been touched by violence.  Whether we are responding to child abuse, domestic violence, human trafficking, rape and sexual assault or other violent crimes, Safe Horizon provides the practical tools, emotional support, education and advocacy to help victims and their families heal and rebuild their lives. For more information, please visit us online at www.safehorizon.org.

For press inquiries, please contact:

Kristen Clonan
Manager, Communications & Marketing
T 212.577.8831 kristen.clonan@safehorizon.org

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