Board advises on treatment of foreign nationals

Monday, Dec. 31, 2001 | 9:41 a.m.

CARSON CITY -- A statewide board that advises and trains prosecutors is reminding law enforcement officers in Nevada that they must follow certain rules in arresting or detaining foreign nationals.

The reminder comes in response to increased scrutiny of foreign nationals in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on the United States.

Kenneth Rohrs, executive director of the Prosecution Advisory Council, said Friday foreign nationals must be advised of their rights to have their country's consul general notified.

This requirement is contained in an agreement signed by 160 countries, including the United States.

The notification of the consul general allows the foreign government to monitor legal proceedings to ensure the foreign national receives a fair and speedy trial, humane treatment and is able to communicate with his or her family.

Attorney General Frankie Sue Del Papa said failing to abide by the agreement "can turn an arrest into an international incident."

Rohrs said a brochure is being distributed to law enforcement agencies because Nevada is a prime tourist location for foreign visitors.

"Observing the rights of foreign nationals arrested in this country better ensures that U.S. citizens detained overseas will be informed of their rights to consular notification," Del Papa said.

The Prosecution Advisory Council was formed in 1997 and includes the state attorney general, a police representative and several district attorneys and city attorneys. Its mission is to conduct training for prosecutors, adopt uniform policies and attend to legislative matters.