Local, federal agencies work on investigation

Red Willow County Sheriff Gene Mahon told county commissioners Monday morning his office continues to coordinate its investigation of an assault Aug. 31 with officials from ICE -- Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

The man believed to be involved in the assault incident northeast of McCook is Hispanic and worked at a dairy also located northeast of McCook. Mahon told commissioners, "Both owners of the dairies are making every attempt to work with law enforcement and Immigration (regarding) information as to the suspect involved in the assault, and (in regard) to having their employees gain legal employment status."

Mahon said ICE officers have been in Red Willow County three times since the assault investigation started.

Mahon said the dairies have lost several employees since the beginning of the criminal investigation.

One, Mahon said, was arrested by ICE officers and is being held on bond awaiting a deportation hearing.

Several employees have been ordered by ICE to correct their legal status within 30 days (from Sept. 20), or face the possibility of being declared ineligible for employment.

Sheriff Mahon said his office does not have the authority to enforce immigration laws. "ICE is the final word on illegal immigrants and immigration issues," the sheriff said.

Mahon said, however, his officers will continue their investigation into the assault with the assistance of ICE.

Commission Chairman Earl McNutt said he hopes that all employers check background information on potential employees, when necessary and regardless of the nature of the job, to insure legal employability status.

McNutt said he wouldn't sympathize with an employer if he/she has financial difficulties because of fines imposed for breaking immigration laws.

Commissioner Steve Downer said it is evident that the American government gives immigrants ample opportunity to become legal citizens before deportation is enforced.

Downer said, "There are many immigrants working in the agriculture industry who have their paperwork in place before they come," into the United States.