LOS ANGELES (AP) — Immigrant rights advocates want a California company that makes police manuals to eliminate guidance for officers who suspect someone entered the country illegally — including whether the person speaks good English.
The American Civil Liberties Union of California and other groups sent a letter Wednesday to Lexipol, urging the Irvine company to eliminate policy language they contend might lead to illegal detentions and arrests.
The manual suggests officers can use "a lack of English proficiency" as one — but not the only — factor in determining whether someone is suspected of violating federal immigration law.
At least 11 California communities use the manuals. Six told the Los Angeles Times they don't actively engage in immigration enforcement
Lexipol's website says its clients are free to choose which policies to follow.
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