Author: Correspondent

With evidence of Gestapo-like tactics by ICE, Waukesha Sheriff continues as a local enforcer

Waukesha County Sheriff Eric Severson recently confirmed to the ACLU that despite community opposition, he renewed his department’s agreement with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to use deputies in the Waukesha County Jail as immigration agents on July 1. Under an agreement called a “287(g) agreement” because its authorized by section 287(g) of the Immigration and Naturalization Act, federal immigration authorities deputize local law enforcement personnel to enforce federal immigration law. ”As he did when he first applied for 287(g), the Sheriff renewed the agreement to be part of President Trump’s deportation machine very quietly and without public input,”...

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Community leaders deliver petition seeking to bar local law enforcement collaboration with ICE

Dozens of Milwaukee community members gathered on September 5 for a press conference at City Hall, before giving public testimony and delivering over sixteen-thousand petitions to the Fire and Police Commission during their general meeting. Community members expressed their desire to see the commission adopt a policy of non-collaboration between the Milwaukee Police Department (MPD) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Public speakers included a diverse range of faith and civic leaders, each highlighting their shared solidarity and concerns with the current policy language on local immigration enforcement. “Community members need to have trust that local law enforcement is...

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New ordinance imposes fines on minors to stem epidemic of sexting in suburban Waukesha County

The term “Sexting” has become a familiar word in recent years as technology has infused unhealthy social habits. While the act of sending and receiving nude photos via an electronic device can create uncomfortable situations for adults, it can cause a great deal of havoc for teens. There are state laws on the books to deal with the issue, but the village of Pewaukee is taking matters into its own hands. Authorities have said that police officers are dealing with more sexting cases than ever between students. As a result, an ordinance was recently passed that would allow hundreds...

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Interfaith Conference prepares for 50th anniversary with transition to new Executive Director

The Interfaith Conference of Greater Milwaukee (IFCGM), which represents the regional leaders and adherents of 18 faiths and denominations, announced that Pardeep Singh Kaleka will be its next executive director beginning July 1. Kaleka was hired after a long search process that included many candidates. The organization was led by Tom Heinen for the past decade as executive director. Heinen will retire after a short transition period. As a first-generation immigrant from India, Kaleka received a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice/Sociology from Marquette University and a master’s in Clinical/Community Psychology from Alverno College. He has served the community through...

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