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City leaders are betting the policy that changes how illegal immigrants are processed in city jails will catch more criminals.

KHOU-TV

Chief Harold Hurtt announced changes in how illegal immigrants are processed.

From the parades to marches to the politics of City Hall, the issue over immigration has now reached the Houston Police Department.

“Our primary concern is public safety,” said Chief Harold Hurtt.

Chief Hurtt announced key revisions to the departments immigration policy Sunday.

The biggest change is in the booking process.

“Our jail booking process will now include asking all persons being arrested whether they were born in United States or are citizens of the United States,” said Hurtt.

Also new, the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement has now been granted full access to HPD jail facilities. That’s similar to system the county jails use.

All who are arrested, including Class C misdemeanors such as assault, would be subject to warrant check.

We’re told the new process will help identify previously deported felons.

“If we’ve detained somebody and there’s a way to identify if they are wanted for something, that’s a good way of using police resources,” said Mayor Bill White.

Mayor White said city leaders support this policy and that it was already in the works.

He says the death of police officer Rodney Johnson only expedited the revisions.

“They are designed to reduce crime and the reduce the threat to our community,” White said.

At a news conference, support for the new policy appeared to be strong and widespread, from the Mexican Consulate to LULAC.

“If you have warrants or you have committed a crime, they need to take you in. And I think in that sense, it’s good. What I would tell immigrants is pay your tickets, stay out of trouble, carry identification and you’ll be OK,” said Rick Dovalina.