SPRINGBORO — Mayor John Agenbroad said the city's law director would review proposed local laws penalizing landlords and employers of illegal immigrants.

Agennbroad said he supported the city doing "whatever we can do" after a presentation Thursday by Citizens for Legal Communities.

The group was formed after the stabbing death of Kevin C. Barnhill, 27, of Mason on Aug. 26, 2006, outside the Mason Pub. Four Mexican men living and working in the area although apparently lacking a Social Security number, American citizenship or any legal basis for U.S. employment, have been charged with murdering Barnhill, a former sports star at Little Miami High School.

His father, Bill Barnhill, and Warren County Prosecutor Rachel Hutzel both told Springboro City Council that illegal immigration was a growing problem in the county. More than 30 supporters filled the council chamber.

Similar laws levying fines against employers and landlords of illegal immigrants, passed in cities including Hazelton, Pa., have been stalled by legal challenges. After a presentation by Barnhill's group, Mason officials said legal obstacles would likely prevent them from passing the laws.