What does the Secure Communities program leverage to enhance immigration enforcement?

The Secure Communities program primarily leverages local law enforcement database checks to enhance immigration enforcement. This system allows for the sharing of information between local law enforcement agencies and federal immigration authorities. When an individual is arrested and booked into local custody, their fingerprints are checked against several databases, including those maintained by the Department of Homeland Security. If there is a match indicating that the individual is an undocumented immigrant or has a violation of immigration law, federal immigration authorities are notified. This collaboration aids in identifying and processing individuals who may be deportable under immigration laws.

The focus on local law enforcement databases allows for a more efficient identification process right at the point of arrest, enhancing the ability to enforce immigration laws in conjunction with local policing efforts. This streamlined approach improves the federal government's capacity to address immigration violations effectively while also relying on established local law enforcement procedures.