ACLU of Nevada files notice of appeal to continue challenge of LVMPD 287(g) agreement with ICE 

LAS VEGAS – The American Civil Liberties Union of Nevada filed a notice of appeal in its lawsuit challenging the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department’s 287(g) agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, continuing its fight to hold local law enforcement accountable for exceeding their authority under Nevada law.

ACLU of Nevada civil rights attorneys are asking the Nevada Supreme Court to review a March 6 decision by the Eighth Judicial District Court that dismissed the case on procedural grounds, without addressing whether the agreement itself violates Nevada law. The organization argues that the issues raised in the case are likely to continue affecting people in Nevada and should not be dismissed without review.

The case – Morais-Hechavarria v. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Case No. A-25-930343-W – challenges LVMPD’s decision to enter into a 287(g) agreement with ICE. The ACLU of Nevada argues LVMPD does not have authority under Nevada law to enter into the agreement.

ACLU of Nevada executive director Athar Haseebullah said:
“As promised, we will continue to pursue all challenges to ensure our local and state governments are following the law, including when local authorities unlawfully support the federal government’s mass deportation efforts and undermine civil liberties in the process. In Nevada, local law enforcement agencies do not have the legal authority to enter into 287(g) cooperation agreements with DHS. The authority to do so comes from the Legislature. Nevada law limits what local agencies can and cannot do, and we will fight to ensure the government follows the law as well. Nevadans deserve a ruling in this case on the merits, and we will continue to push relentlessly to ensure we receive one.”