MAHOPAC – A Mahopac School Board member and an Assemblyman are vigorously supporting Christopher Harrigan after a group calling itself People’s Immigrant Coalition demanded that he resign from the School Board because he works for the (U.S.) Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
“Calling for an elected school board member’s removal because he enforces federal law is reckless,” said Tanner McCracken, a Mahopac School Board Trustee. “Chris Harrigan’s work with ICE is lawful, ethical, and entirely separate from his volunteer service to our schools. Political intimidation has no place at Board meetings that are about educating students. Chris is a man of character who serves both our nation and our school community. His job is difficult and dangerous, and our neighborhoods are safer because of it.”
“It is both disgraceful and outrageous to attempt to disqualify a federal law enforcement officer from serving on a local school board,” added Assemblyman Matt Slater (R,C-Yorktown). “Members of law enforcement who protect and serve our communities deserve our gratitude.”
Harrigan could not immediately be reached for comment on Thursday.
According to People’s Immigrant Coalition, Harrigan has been captured on video multiple times since August, arresting individuals in Brewster and Carmel. The group claims that it is a violation of human and constitutional rights, and is in direct conflict with the School Board’s mission to ensure the safety and education of all students.”
Harrigan’s supporters called into question the validity of People’s Immigrant Coalition. The outfit does not have a website, only a Facebook page, and a spokesperson quoted in Thursday’s did not identify themselves. People’s Immigrant Coalition has asked residents to attend tonight’s Board of Education meeting, demanding Harrigan’s resignation. The meeting will be held at 7:30 p.m. at the Mahopac Falls Elementary School Auditorium.
According to his bio on the Mahopac Schools website, Harrigan has spent close to 20 years in the law enforcement field. He has volunteered as a firefighter/EMT, Cub Scout leader, and Mahopac youth sports coach.
“I stand with School Board Member Chris Harrigan,” McCracken said.
Comments