Giovanni Veliz, PhD, a retired police commander, graduate of Hamline's Doctorate in Management and Public Service program ('23), and Center for Public Administration and Leadership fellow, testified at a hearing of the U.S. Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Border Security and Immigration on July 22.
Speaking from his experience as a community police officer, Dr. Veliz described how efforts by local law enforcement agencies to build trust with immigrant communities can help combat crime and enhance the safety of police officers. He also urged the subcommittee to consider the potential for negative consequences when local law enforcement agencies become involved in federal immigration enforcement efforts. Dr. Veliz said when residents fear law enforcement, their willingness to report crimes, cooperate with investigations, or assist in identifying violent offenders is diminished.