Surprise, the Obama Department of Homeland Security goes after Sheriff Joe too!

He’s tough on crime and doesn’t coddle criminals. He enforces immigration laws, and he’s investigating the validity of Obama’s suddenly produced birth certificate. Frankly, I’m surprised he’s still breathing…

JANET'S REVENGE: Homeland Security limits ties...

Homeland Security limits ties with Arizona's Sheriff Joe Arpaio

The Department of Homeland Security reacted quickly Thursday to news that the Justice Department had accused Joe Arpaio, the Arizona sheriff known for his tough policies on illegal immigration, of a “pattern of misconduct” that permitted unlawful arrests and excessive force against Latinos.

In a statement, Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said her department was ending one agreement with Arpaio’s Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office and restricting the office’s access to another Homeland Security program.

“Discrimination undermines law enforcement and erodes the public trust,” Napolitano said. “DHS will not be a party to such practices. Accordingly, and effective immediately, DHS is terminating MCSO's 287(g) jail model agreement and is restricting the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office access to the Secure Communities program.”

Under the 287(g) program, Arpaio’s deputies could question jail inmates about their immigration status. Under Secure Communities, fingerprints collected by state and local police are shared with immigration authorities to identify and deport tens of thousands of people each year.