Superior Court judge steps into immigration debate - Pennsylvania

“A state appeals court judge from Luzerne County on Monday urged that county judges be given authority to deport illegal immigrants who have committed serious crimes.

A federal law should be passed so county judges can hold deportation hearings for illegal immigrants who commit crimes in their jurisdiction, said Superior Court Judge Correale Stevens, a candidate for retention to a second 10-year term this November.

Judge Stevens made his comments at a Capitol press conference focusing on what state Republican lawmakers say is a serious public safety threat posed by illegal immigrants engaged in criminal activity. Judge Stevens’ statement drew immediate attention because it’s unusual for a judge to show up at a press conference where one political party blasts another for bottling up legislation. Political observers suggested Judge Stevens’ appearance is a sign that judges across Pennsylvania are nervous about retention prospects this year. “

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