Bill Graham wants state sheriffs to have immigration powers.
The Republican gubernatorial candidate said he thinks that every sheriff in North Carolina should be authorized under a federal program to investigate illegal immigrants in custody.
Under Section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1996, some local law enforcement agencies can be given immigration authority, which is normally reserved for federal agents.
"I think you should know who in your jail or who in your facility is illegal," he told Dome. "I would want to know that if I were a sheriff."
State Sen. Fred Smith has said he supports putting every state sheriff under the program.
Graham said he would go even further.
"I think all the chiefs of police should have the same ability," he said.
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