PONTIAC, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who has been MIA since her Democratic stronghold on the state fell apart last week, has made it clear Michigan is a welcoming place for illegal aliens. That’s why Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard is going above her head to lobby President-elect Donald Trump’s administration to close the visa waiver program.

Sheriff Bouchard is reaching out to Trump.

Sheriff’s Bouchard’s plea comes amidst a year-long fight against transnational gangs who’ve targeted high-end homes in Oakland County. Officials say they are breaking into homes and stealing items like electronics and jewelry. Some of the gangs have even hit the same homes twice.

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Bouchard, who is vice president of the Major County Sheriffs of America, asked Democratic President Joe Biden’s administration to shut down the program but the request was met with static. Bouchard says the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) program is abused by the burglary gang members who stay beyond the 90 days and use fake IDs.

A holiday warning.

In the meantime, Detroit-area law enforcement officials are warning residents to take precautions if they plan to travel for the holidays. South American burglary gangs that have set their sights on Oakland County homes likely won’t take a Christmas break.

Tips include using motion detectors, turning on security devices, and taking photos of any valuables. In addition, lock vehicles and don’t leave garage door openers in parked cars in the driveway. Police also say it’s not just enough to lock the doors, but avoid social media posts until you are back home.

Earlier this month, police in Novi arrested a Chilean national who they say is a member of one those burglary rings. Police said gang members enter the United States from Chili and Venezuela and, as Michigan News Source reported, members of the dangerous Tren de Aragua gang are in the state.

Michigan’s task force.

Bouchard, a Republican, teamed up with Democratic Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel last year to form the Southeast Michigan Collaborate, Arrest and Prosecute group (SEMCAP). It is comprised of federal and local law enforcement agencies to combat South American Theft Groups.