City of Miami signs onto deal with ICE: ‘Keep the American people safe’
City commissioners in Miami, Florida, made a controversial decision on Tuesday by voting 3-2 to allow police officers to work with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This move comes as the city entered a 287(g) partnership with ICE, which is used by various cities to assist with federal enforcement using different methods.
The 287(g) program allows for local law enforcement to be trained and approved by ICE, giving them the authority to assist in enforcing immigration laws. This decision by Miami’s city commissioners is a sharp contrast to the policies of some other cities throughout the United States, especially in major metropolitan areas, which do not allow local or state authorities to help enforce immigration laws.
“We value our partnerships with state and local law enforcement, and the success of the 287(g) program allows for a force multiplier in enforcing immigration laws,” an ICE spokesperson said in a statement. “This whole-of-government approach enables law enforcement partners to protect cities across the nation from public safety and national security threats, and we encourage others across the country to join.”
In February, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis issued an Executive Order for state-level law enforcement to establish agreements with ICE to assist in deportation efforts. DeSantis praised Florida for setting an example in combating illegal immigration and working with the Trump administration to restore the rule of law. By allowing state agents and law enforcement officers to be trained and approved by ICE, Florida aims to carry out deportations more efficiently and make communities safer by removing illegal aliens.
However, there has been opposition to entering into the agreement from some residents and groups like the American Civil Liberties Union and the Florida Immigrant Coalition. Critics argue that the 287(g) program will only spread fear and isolate immigrant communities, rather than making the city safer.
Despite the criticism, the White House expressed support for Miami’s decision, emphasizing the importance of deporting illegal aliens as a key part of President Trump’s agenda to make America safe again. The Administration is grateful to work with state and local officials to remove dangerous criminals from the streets and protect the American people.
In April, a large-scale ICE operation in collaboration with Florida authorities resulted in the arrest of 1,120 illegal immigrants. The agency reported that 63% of those arrested had existing criminal arrests or convictions, with many having alleged gang affiliations. This highlights the importance of partnerships between federal and local law enforcement to ensure public safety and national security.
Overall, Miami’s decision to enter into a 287(g) partnership with ICE has sparked controversy and divided opinions. While some see it as a necessary step to enforce immigration laws and protect communities, others view it as a betrayal of immigrant communities and a cause for fear and division. The ongoing debate surrounding immigration enforcement policies continues to be a contentious issue in cities across the United States.
