Following concerns over handling U visa applications by the Portland Police Bureau, City Auditor Simone Rede has announced that the city is taking steps to improve the process. A report from the Ombudsman in June 2023 brought attention to the significant drop in certification rates of U visa applications by the Bureau. Between 2021 and 2022, the rate plummeted from nearly 90 percent to below 50 percent, setting off alarm bells regarding the Bureau's adherence to proper laws and protocols, as per the City of Portland, Oregon.
The audit pointed to various issues, including law officials misinterpreting the law, drafting errors in denial letters, and inadequate policies and training. According to the Ombudsman report, such problems could have stemmed from high turnover within the Bureau and inconsistent use of qualified interpreters. In response to the Ombudsman's findings, four recommendations were issued to align the Bureau with federal and state law, ensuring eligible crime victims are not wrongly denied certification.
In the months following the audit, the Bureau has shown signs of recovery, with the certification rate bouncing back to 83 percent after a change in personnel. The city has committed to fully implementing the Ombudsman's recommendations to maintain this upward trend. To gauge the progress, follow-up checks were conducted by contacting the Bureau, interviewing the lieutenant in charge of reviewing applications and consulting with the Bureau’s Latino Advisory Council members.
The city's recent moves reflect its dedication to remedying past failings and fostering a more immigrant-friendly environment. "Full implementation of our recommendations will help to make sure that the Bureau’s handling of U visa certification requests is aligned with federal and state law and City policies to make Portland a welcoming place for immigrants", states the Ombudsman's follow-up assessment. These efforts, if sustained, are poised to improve the relationship between law enforcement and immigrant communities, exemplifying the city's commitment to inclusivity and justice, as cited by the City of Portland, Oregon.
