Watchdog group against ID card program

New Haven (WTNH) - A Watchdog group is accusing New Haven Mayor John DeStefano of importing crime in the wake of last week's brutal rape and beating of a Temple Grill employee.

The suspect in the case is believed to be in the country illegally.

Members of Community Watchdog Project stood outside the place where both the suspect and the victim worked and called on Mayor DeStefano to suspend the New Haven ID card program.

They say offering the cards to illegal immigrants has created an atmosphere of lawlessness and a safe haven for those here illegally -- including dangerous criminals.

The mayor said the rape suspect did not have an Elm City ID but critics point out, there is no way to verify that.

"We believe that he has no right to create a secret sub-culture within the society of New Haven and that is precisely what he's done by protecting their identities," said Veronica Kivela of Community Watchdog Project.

"As regards to this individual, it was just that, the unacceptable crazy behavior of one individual, who as far as we know and am aware of, had no criminal background," said Mayor John DeStefano.

DeStefano did not answer critics' calls to suspend the New Haven ID program. He accused the Watchdog groups of using last week's tragedy to create fear and prejudice.