NCJ Number
82050
Date Published
1977
Length
26 pages
Annotation
The impact of illegal aliens on the resources of the Los Angeles Police Department is analyzed, and recommendations for local, State, and Federal action are offered.
Abstract
The alarming rate of increase in the illegal alien population in Los Angeles (242 percent over the last 5 years) has a direct impact on police resources. Based on per capita expenditures, the cost of providing police services to illegal aliens in the city is $37,050,000 annually. While statistical data on crime committed by illegal aliens is not available, estimates are that illegal alien involvement in crime is increasing. Any large diversion of police resources for enforcement of immigration laws, absent special circumstances, would not be cost-effective. The Department should focus its efforts on the illegal aliens involved in criminal activities. Department policy and procedures should be established to provide for the identification of illegal alien criminals, their vigorous prosecution, and their formal deportation after serving sentences. The primary incentive for illegal aliens to enter this country is employment. This incentive must be eliminated by Federal legislation prohibiting employment of illegal aliens. Pending action by Congress, California should immediately enact legislation consistent with the U.S. Supreme Court guidelines to prohibit employers from knowingly hiring illegal aliens. Tabular and graphic data and 26 bibliographic references are provided.