Cooper’s Sanctuary Policies Cost Taxpayers $3.14B, Vetoed ICE Cooperation
North Carolina Democrat Roy Cooper’s sanctuary policies cost taxpayers billions and blocked ICE cooperation, according to new reports.
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North Carolina Democrat Senate candidate Roy Cooper’s sanctuary policies, which protected illegal aliens, have cost taxpayers over $3.14 billion, according to recent reports. During his tenure as governor, Cooper vetoed legislation that would have required local law enforcement to cooperate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), despite the presence of nearly 500,000 illegal aliens in the state.
Illegal Aliens Released Despite ICE Detainers
Between 2018 and 2019, 489 illegal aliens with active ICE detainers were released from state prisons, including those charged with serious crimes such as sex offenses, kidnapping, and homicides. One such case involved an illegal alien in Durham County who was arrested for robbery with a dangerous weapon and released despite an ICE detainer. Six months later, he allegedly strangled his girlfriend to death, believing she was cheating on him. He was later captured in Louisiana and charged with murder.
Deported Immigrants Released Again
In Mecklenburg County, a previously deported illegal immigrant was released after being arrested on charges including first-degree rape and indecent liberties with a minor. County officials refused to cooperate with ICE, leading to the release of the individual. Similarly, in Asheville, Buncombe County released an illegal immigrant charged with statutory sex offenses against an 11-year-old girl after refusing to work with ICE.
Cooper Vetoed ICE Cooperation Measures
State legislators attempted to pass legislation to address the issue, but Cooper vetoed the measures on three separate occasions. In a 2019 veto message, Cooper claimed the legislation was about scoring partisan political points and using fear to divide North Carolina, arguing it weakened local law enforcement by mandating sheriffs to perform federal duties.
Impact on Law Enforcement and Campaign
Despite his stance, Cooper’s campaign has been shunned by law enforcement organizations, which have instead endorsed Republican Michael Whatley. Recent polls indicate a tightening race in North Carolina, with a recent survey showing a narrow margin of 5 points in favor of Cooper.
Source: Breitbart
