To resolve an ACLU of Colorado lawsuit filed earlier this year alleging racial profiling, biased policing, and illegal search of a residence, Denver agreed to a settlement that provides for new police policies, new training for officers, and payment of $20,000 to the ACLU’s clients.
The lawsuit, filed in federal court in March on behalf of Jose Sanchez and his girlfriend, Joshinna Carreras, charged that Denver police officers targeted Sanchez, detained him without reasonable suspicion, and falsely accused him of being an “illegal immigrant.” The officers then illegally arrested Sanchez for supposedly providing “false identification,” and they illegally entered and searched Carreras’ home without a warrant. The supposedly “false” identification was a current and valid photo ID -- an Employment Authorization Card -- issued by the Department of Homeland Security, which confirmed Mr. Sanchez’s legal presence and authorization to work in the United States.
Under the new policies, instead of simply booking an individual on a charge of false identification and turning the case over to prosecutors, Denver police will contact federal authorities to inquire whether the ID is genuine. If it is, the individual will be released immediately.
