US News
Danbury City Council approves measure allowing legal non-citizens and DACA recipients to serve as police officers
The Connecticut city updated its hiring rules to align with state law enforcement standards following recent federal immigration enforcement operations in the area.
The short version
- Danbury's City Council voted 18-2 to permit lawful permanent residents and DACA recipients to apply for roles in the local police department.
- City officials emphasized that the policy expands the applicant pool while maintaining standard training, certification, and background check requirements.
- The decision closely followed local immigration enforcement actions that led to dozens of arrests in the community.
Key facts
- The Danbury City Council approved the hiring measure in an 18-2 vote, supported by 17 Democrats and one Republican, while two Republicans opposed it.[Fox News]
- The updated ordinance allows lawful permanent residents and DACA recipients living in Danbury to apply to become local police officers.[Fox News]
- Connecticut's Police Officer Standards and Training Council partially waived the citizenship requirement in 2020, a standard already adopted by more than 30 municipalities in the state.[Fox News]
- Mayor Roberto Alves and city officials stated that all non-citizen applicants will remain subject to existing background checks, physical fitness tests, and training requirements.[Fox News]
- The municipal vote occurred following local Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations that resulted in more than 60 arrests.[Fox News]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.