Philadelphia considers change immigration cooperation order

Philadelphia is considering changes to an executive order that prevents city officials from cooperating with federal immigration agents.

Deputy Mayor Everett Gillison tells The Philadelphia Inquirer his proposed policy change would allow cooperation with immigration officials if a suspect is accused of crimes like murder, rape or terrorism.

In 2014, Mayor Michael Nutter signed an order barring police from holding immigrants solely on immigration detainers without an additional warrant. At the time, Nutter said some immigrants weren’t reporting crimes due to deportation fears.

Nutter’s spokesman says no action has been taken and the core purpose of the order won’t change. Mark McDonald says the administration is seeking feedback from the community on the matter.

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Erika Almiron, of Juntos, says immigrant advocates want Nutter to keep his word.

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