The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has implemented a new Immigration Policy that greatly bolsters public safety by giving foreign victims of crimes such as rape, trafficking and domestic abuse a chance to work with law enforcement in investigating and prosecuting criminal offenders without the immediate threat of deportation.

Visas allowing crime victims to remain in the U.S. while giving information leading to the prosecution of offenders are valid for six months. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office may reissue expired visas upon request when eligible.

The policy reflects state law that aims to ensure equal treatment of citizens and noncitizens. In cases in which the defendant was clearly unable to understand the adverse immigration consequences of their plea, the prosecutor will reconsider the plea.

Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascon said the new policy ensures justice for all defendants, regardless of their country of origin.

It also expands access to pretrial diversion programs and treatment services that address root causes of criminal conduct without an admission of guilt specifically used for deportation purposes.

“The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office consulted with our staff, community stakeholders and immigration experts to craft a comprehensive immigration policy that protects vulnerable victims and prioritizes safety while attempting to avoid overly punitive consequences for the accused,” Gascon said. “This policy is based on California law which aims to ensure equal protection and treatment of citizens and noncitizens alike. We will continue to rely upon our staff to provide us with relevant information that will assist in making the determination if alternative sentencing is warranted.”

“The Immigrant Legal Resource Center applauds D.A. Gascon for adopting the county’s first immigration policy. Though such a policy is new in Los Angeles, it is not unprecedented. Considering the deportation consequences of crimes is required under California and federal law,” said Rose Cahn, staff attorney for the Immigrant Legal Resource Center. “Because of this, prosecutors of diverse political backgrounds throughout the state and country have created similar directives for their staff about how charging and plea bargaining decision impact the noncitizen community. Such directives ensure the fair administration of justice to all people, regardless of where they were born.”

For information, visit da.lacounty.gov.