Month/Year of Graduation
5-2024
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
Department
Criminology and Criminal Justice
First Advisor
Kimberly Retzlaff
Abstract
Since 2000, immigrants have been eligible for U visa status if they are a victim of a particular crime and assist law enforcement in criminal investigations. However, challenges arise for numerous reasons with the I-918 Supplement B form, which must be signed by an agency certifier within law enforcement or an attorney’s office. This study examines the policies of six law enforcement agencies and attorney’s offices in the Omaha Metro Area through semi-structured interviews to understand their approach to U visas and the characteristics of successful applications. The study aims to uncover variations in agency procedures and understandings and the impact of certifying Form I-918 Supplement B has on immigrant populations in their jurisdictions. Analysis of qualitative and quantitative data collected elucidated the complexities of U visa certification processes and the reliance on the criminal justice system in certain immigration cases.
Recommended Citation
Ehmke, Emma, "Seeking Sanctuary: An Analysis of U Visa Policies in Omaha, Nebraska and Their Impact on Immigrant Communities" (2024). Theses/Capstones/Creative Projects. 323.
https://digitalcommons.unomaha.edu/university_honors_program/323