Cape DA's Petition To Prevent Sanctuary State Certified By AG

CAPE COD, MA — A potential 2020 ballot question spearheaded by Cape and Islands District Attorney Michael O'Keefe was certified by Attorney General Maura Healey's office this week. The petition to prevent Massachusetts from becoming a sanctuary state is backed by state Rep. William Crocker, a Republican from Centerville, Barnstable Sheriff James Cummings and 12 others.

According to the proposal, state and local law enforcement would have expanded powers to detain someone in order to transfer them to federal immigration officials if that person is both subject to deportation and a threat to the public. Local agencies would be responsible for determining whether a person is a public safety threat based on factors like gang participation, past convictions for serious crimes or suspect terrorism. Any detention over 12 hours would need court approval, according to the proposal.

O'Keefe said participation of local law enforcement would be voluntary if the measure passes. The proposal needs at least 80,000 signatures from registered voters by Dec. 4 to get sent to the Legislature, according to the Cape Cod Times. If it is not passed, an additional 13,374 signatures are needed to have it put on the 2020 ballot.

Healey's office said the 12 petitions certified this week met the constitutional requirements and do not necessarily reflect the office's support or opposition.