CONCORD - Governor Kelly Ayotte released a statement supporting New Hampshire law enforcement agencies cooperation with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement through agreements codified in the federal government's Immigration and Nationality Act:
"It is critical for state and local law enforcement to cooperate with federal authorities and protect our citizens," she said. "Criminals who are in our country illegally and pose a danger should be apprehended and removed. I support and encourage New Hampshire law enforcement agencies to cooperate with ICE to enforce our laws and keep our communities safe."
New Hampshire Department of Safety Commissioner Robert L. Quinn echoed his support.
"We are pleased to see that the federal government is interested in reinstating the task force model, which would grant both legal authority and protection to our State Troopers when they encounter individuals in the United States illegally," he added. "This agreement will strengthen our longstanding partnerships with federal, state, county and municipal law enforcement agencies, including efforts tied to our state-run Northern Border Alliance program. It also helps ensure New Hampshire's law enforcement officers can act swiftly to remove dangerous criminals and keep our communities the safest in the Nation."