Editorial Correspondences: Beyond being inhumane, mass expulsions also carry a significant financial burden
Article Renewed:
You've got some bones to pick with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), huh? Gustavo Arellano's column about their "sanctuary cities" list stirs up a storm ("Homeland Security's 'sanctuary city' list is riddled with errors - and that's the damned point," June 3). And rightfully so! Huntington Beach and Santee ending up on this list must've been quite the headache for those city leaders.
Now, let's cut to the chase: Just what's the deal with DHS and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement these days? They're not just booting folks they decide don't belong here without their day in court. No, they're shipping them off to places where they're more likely to face torture and even death, all at taxpayer expense.
Couldn't we simply dump them back in their home countries for less dough? But apparently, their lives being put on the line is more of a priority than the wallet. Just another example of that ol' American exceptionalism kicking in.
Les Hartzman, Los Angeles
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem? Think she's got her priorities straight? Seems more like she's got it out for anyone who crosses her path. 'Cause if you dare to get in her way, boy, she's gunning for you. That's gotta be a touch of cruelty, wouldn't you say?
Another point: What's the deal with challenging the head of a Cabinet department that's supposed to be looking out for our asses instead of putting us in harm's way? Sounds like the dream is dead for democracy, huh?
Joan Walston, Santa Monica
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Dig a little deeper:The Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) deportation practices have recently sparked some heated discussions on various issues, including concerns about the risks of torture, death, and excessive costs to taxpayers.
Torture and Death Risks
Immigrants detained under tough conditions: There have been allegations about the detention of serious crime offenders in harsh conditions at a U.S. military base in Djibouti, with detainees facing extreme temperatures and toxic smoke exposure. These conditions surface as a result of a court order blocking their deportation to South Sudan, a country with which they have no substantial connection, due to concerns about potential torture[2].
Deportation to dangerous locations: Critics have accused the administration of attempting to deport migrants to countries like South Sudan and Libya, which are currently experiencing civil unrest and have concerning conditions in detention facilities[4].
Cost to Taxpayers
Deportation and detention expenses: The administration is exploring ways to lower the costs associated with deportation, such as the voluntary self-deportation program known as Project Homecoming - estimated to reduce costs by 70% compared to traditional methods[1][2]. However, concerns arise regarding the financial implications of detaining immigrants in foreign harsh conditions[1][2].
Legal challenges: The financial burden on taxpayers also includes costs associated with legal battles. For instance, the administration is appealing a court order that blocked deportations, incurring additional legal expenses[2]. Furthermore, the use of extreme legal tactics and the involvement of multiple agencies in deportation efforts could lead to increased costs[4].
Current developments
- Arrests at immigration courts: ICE has reportedly begun arresting migrants at immigration courts, which some argue jeopardizes due process and escalates detention costs[3].
- Fines and penalties: The administration has imposed large fines on undocumented immigrants, with some subject to penalties as high as $1.8 million. Such penalties could potentially affect taxpayers if they lead to further legal challenges or law enforcement activities[1].
- Les Hartzman, Los Angeles, questions the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) motives, as they deport immigrants, allegedly risking their lives and subjecting them to torture and death, at excess taxpayer expense.
- Joan Walston from Santa Monica expresses her disapproval towards Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, suggesting her policies and actions are not in the best interest of the public, with a focus on immigration enforcement that potentially jeopardizes individual rights and safety.
- The ongoing immigration debate in California, including the consequences of deportation practices and policies, has garnered attention in general-news outlets and political discussions, causing polarizing opinions on the proper treatment of immigrants and the role of policy-and-legislation in protecting their rights.
