SYLACAUGA, Ala. – While immigration might have been a general concern to local residents, when the issue came directly to Sylacauga, it stirred more passionate responses. With our local city, as well as others in the state, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall is keeping a watch on the developing situation.
Of concern is the Cuban, Haitian, Nicaraguan, and Venezuelan Parole Program, commonly referred to as CHNV. Marshall acknowledges that the individual immigrants have legal status, as well as the ability to work under the program.
However, Marshall has also noted that this program differs from other immigration programs.
“We believe that the Biden Administration is surpassing the authority granted under the Congressional authorization for the program, and this matter if currently being litigated,” stated Marshall.
Marshall also expressed his concern regarding transparency, specifically regarding the level of engagement and the activity of the program sponsor/supporters with local residents. There are, or have been, approximately 60 CHNV Program immigrants in Sylacauga – Haitian and Nicaraguan.
Marshall added that his agency is deeply concerned about human trafficking and are committed to preventing it.
“We have expressed our readiness to assist in any way possible if any instances of human trafficking are identified.”
Some Alabama cities with larger influxes of immigrants have reported a significant amount of criminal activity, and Marshall noted that his department is fully aware of the situation, adding that they have charged several individuals, including those involved in violent crime.
So far in Sylacauga, this has been limited to one lone arrest on Sunday, Sept. 8, when 30-year-old Haitian Sony Bastien was arrested by the Sylacauga Police Department on a charge of Domestic Violence – Simple Assault – Family.
Marshall reiterated that his agency handles issues like human trafficking, which would require their involvement.
“The second concern focuses on the role of attorneys general in preventing the federal government from exceeding its authority.”
Besides the scope of the CHNV Parole Program, Marshall says that is especially so in relation to sponsors and their involvement in bringing people into the country. AG Marshall met with members of law enforcement in Talladega County this past Thursday to talk about the program’s effects.
