This two-part course provides Connecticut law enforcement officers with a practical overview of immigration law, the role of federal immigration authorities, and the limits placed on state and local law enforcement when interacting with immigrant communities. Led by Attorney Lawrence A. Terra, the course explains key immigration concepts, common pathways into the United States, why immigrant communities may fear police contact, and how officers can respond in a lawful, professional, and community-focused manner.
The training is designed to help officers understand the difference between federal immigration enforcement and local law enforcement responsibilities. It also reviews Connecticut-specific requirements, including the Trust Act, civil immigration detainers, judicial warrants, information-sharing limitations, and considerations involving victims, witnesses, juveniles, trafficking, and cooperation with federal agencies.
Course Overview
By the end of this course, participants will have a clearer understanding of how immigration law intersects with Connecticut law enforcement operations. The course emphasizes that immigration enforcement is primarily a federal responsibility, while state and local officers must follow Connecticut law, department policy, constitutional standards, and proper procedures when immigration-related issues arise.
Participants will review:
- Basic immigration categories and pathways into the United States
- Why immigrant communities may hesitate to contact or cooperate with police
- The difference between federal immigration enforcement and local policing duties
- The role of ICE and the limits of state and local law enforcement authority
- Connecticut Trust Act requirements
- Civil immigration detainers versus judicial warrants
- Restrictions on detention and information sharing
- Considerations involving victims, witnesses, juveniles, trafficking, and U visas
- Practical steps officers can take to support lawful, fair, and community-centered policing
This course helps officers approach immigration-related encounters with greater confidence, legal awareness, and professionalism.