Professional Development Courses Look at Immigration, Homeland Security

Immigration will be the main topic at two upcoming events sponsored by Texas A&M International University Criminal Justice Program Thursday, April 22. The first, a lecture, “Immigration, Crime and Punishment,” starts at 12 p.m. in the Student Center, room 236 and the Texas National Guard professional development course, “Immigration and Homeland Security” begins at 6 p.m. in Dr. F. M. Canseco Hall, room 204.

The development course will also be available online.

Both events are free and open to the public, but first responders are highly encouraged to attend.

Presenting both offerings is Dr. Richard Hartley, an assistant professor of criminal justice at the University of Texas at San Antonio, and former TAMIU assistant professor of criminal justice.

“Immigration and Homeland Security” will focus on federal immigration offenses in Texas’ southern district, with special attention to sentences or punishment of offenders as well as federal sentencing guidelines. The course will also discuss the link between immigration policies and homeland security and explore the ability of local, state and federal law enforcement agencies to prevent illegal immigration.

Dr. Hartley has a B.S. and an M.S. from Minot State University and a Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska. He has published several articles in the field of criminal justice.

This course is presented as part of a comprehensive program designed to provide the training and expertise required for personnel working to secure the nation’s southern border.

Partners include TAMIU, the Texas National Guard, Laredo Community College, and various federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.

Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education training hours will be awarded to law enforcement who attend.

For more information, please contact Dr. Claudia E. San Miguel, director, criminal justice program, at 326.2529 or csanmiguel@tamiu.edu or visit offices in Dr. F. M. Canseco Hall, room 302J.

University office hours are 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu