I continue to wonder why, instead of expanding funding for federal immigration enforcement agencies, there has been no corresponding effort by the federal government to increase support for local and state police departments. In my own search, I have found minimal evidence that such investment is being made.

This strikes me as a missed opportunity. Local departments know their communities, their geography and the people they serve. They understand the rhythms of their towns, the trouble spots and the longstanding relationships that help keep order. It seems only logical that officers with deep local knowledge would be better suited to enforcing laws within their own jurisdictions than federal agents who arrive with limited familiarity and, in many cases, minimal training in the specific needs of the area.

Strengthening local departments would not only improve public safety but also build trust — something that cannot be flown in from Washington, D.C. If the goal is effective law enforcement, then supporting the people already doing the work on the ground would seem the most practical place to start.

Hubbard Goodrich
Harpswell