Immigration detention falls short of standards

LOS ANGELES - Immigrant advocates say the federal government has failed to meet its own standards for detaining immigrants, making it difficult for immigrants to defend themselves in court and fight to remain in the country.

A report released Tuesday says detainees face limited access to phones, mail and law libraries in violation of federal standards.

The study by attorneys from the National Immigration Law Center and formerly from the American Civil Liberties Union is based on inspection reports by Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other reviewers between 2001 and 2005.

Dora Schriro, special adviser to the Homeland Security Secretary on detention and removal, says the study is outdated since the government has revamped its detention standards and inspection procedures.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2009/7/222110