In a shift from hurricanes in 2012 and 2016, the Border Patrol says it will not close north-of-the-border checkpoints during Hurricane Harvey.
“The Border Patrol is a law enforcement agency and we will not abandon our law enforcement duties.”
When asked to elaborate on the statement, CBP public affairs officer Roberto Rodriguez said officers would prioritize public safety but keep intact the goals of the agency’s mission.
“We’re not going to impede anybody getting out of here, but at the same time we’re a law enforcement agency, so we still have to conduct our duties,” he said.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Texas quickly admonished the agency for putting policy ahead of safety.
“Safety should be a priority regardless of immigration status,” said ACLU policy strategist Astrid Dominguez. “This is very concerning for the community. It sends a wrong message.”
Just as the “sanctuary cities” Trump derides prioritize public safety by letting immigrants and their loved ones report crimes without fear of ICE, standing down from the checkpoints while cities may have to evacuate saves people being too afraid to get to safety. It’s a terrible precedent. Let’s hope that tragedy doesn’t ensue.