A Statement from Jonathan E. Gradess, Executive Director, New York State Defenders Association

ALBANY, NY (06/02/2011)(readMedia)-- In a move supported by state and local law enforcement as well as advocates for immigrants, Governor Andrew Cuomo has suspended New York State's participation in the federal Secure Communities Program. On behalf of our association and its Criminal Defense Immigration Project (CDIP), which has been among those criticizing the initiative, we congratulate the Governor for the courage shown by this action. We join with many, many others in thanking Governor Cuomo for re-examining the program and the increasing evidence that it has damaged, not promoted, the safety of communities. We are confident that an honest review of Secure Communities will result in New York's permanent withdrawal from participation in the program and we appreciate Governor Cuomo for his forward thinking.