The U.S. Justice Department alleges that Maricopa County
Sheriff’s Office, headed by Joe Arpaio is guilty of numerous civil rights
violations.

Arpaio, nicknamed “America’s toughest sheriff,” and his
deputies were investigated by the Justice Department which found they were
guilty of practicing discrimination against Latinos and engaging in misconduct
that violates individuals’ constitutional rights and federal laws.

Undocumented immigrants face numerous hurdles when they
don’t have a legal presence in the states. They face the anger of citizens and
are not allowed to fully participate in our democracy. They are advised to hire
an immigration attorney to avoid
deportation and social prejudices.

The finding of the investigation showed that Latinos are
four to nine times more likely to be pulled over for a traffic stop than
non-Latinos. The DOJ also stated that the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office
repeatedly conducted unlawful stops, detentions and arrests of Latinos.

Maricopa County Sheriff’s office is also facing allegations
that they failed to thoroughly investigate sex crimes committed against
Latinos. The sheriff’s office acknowledged that 432 cases of sexual assault or
molestation were not investigated over a three year period ending in 2007.

Immigration attorneys
can prevent some unnecessary discrimination by obtaining legal documentation. Their
expertise will help the hopeful immigrant navigate the immigration system. An immigration lawyer can
apply for visas or naturalization and will be a much needed asset to becoming a
legalized U.S. citizen.