WABE FM radio Atlanta
NPR/PBA

Gwinnett puts controversial deportation program on chopping block
Charles Edwards (2009-07-15)

ATLANTA, GA (WABE) – When Gwinnett County votes on budget cuts Tuesday, it will decide the fate a controversial deportation program.

Under 287g, federal immigration officials teach sheriff deputies how to screen jails for illegal immigrants leading to deportation.

Gwinnett Commission chair Charles Bannister says the county’s sheriff wants to hire 18 deputies for the program.

BANNISTER: “The folks here in Gwinnett County would want to move that program forward.”

287 G would cost Gwinnett almost 3 million dollars a year. It would be money well spent according to D.A. King. The Dustin Inman Society founder says the program has worked in other states.

KING: “Where 287G is used, people in the country illegally leave whether it’s from deportation or fear of the law being enforced.”

However, Gwinnett resident and community activist Ron Rearden argues deportation creates bigger problems for an illegal immigrant and their loved ones.

REARDEN: “The family doesn’t know where they are and it is tearing families apart.”

If approved, Gwinnett would become the 4th Georgia county with the program

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