Florida sheriff touts St. Johns County partnership with ICE
St. Johns County Sheriff Robert Hardwick emphasized the importance of leveraging relationships with federal immigration enforcement officials in the fight against criminal migrants. He described this collaboration as the “tip of the spear” in combating illegal activities such as human trafficking, sex trafficking, guns, narcotics, and other criminal offenses.
Sheriff Hardwick highlighted his department’s participation in the 287(g) program, which allows local law enforcement officers to assist U.S. Immigration and Customs Protection (ICE) in identifying and detaining suspected illegal immigrants. While St. Johns County does not have a federal holding site, sheriff’s deputies work closely with federal officials to notify them of illegal migrants apprehended in the area.
In instances where individuals cannot provide valid proof of identification and are found to be in the country illegally, sheriff’s deputies book them into the St. Johns County Jail. Through systems like IAQ (Immigration Alien Query), law enforcement officials can identify individuals with civil deportation orders or arrest warrants.
Sheriff Hardwick emphasized the importance of holding all sheriffs accountable in Florida to work with federal partners in enforcing deportations and identifying criminal aliens. He mentioned regular meetings with federal, state, and local partners to discuss and track down the most wanted criminal aliens in the region.
To enhance their enforcement efforts, St. Johns County has implemented technology such as license plate readers at border checkpoints to identify stolen vehicles, wanted persons, or individuals with deportation orders. Sheriff Hardwick praised the county’s proactive approach in utilizing technology to enhance law enforcement operations.
With the recent passage of new immigration legislation in Florida, Sheriff Hardwick expressed the need for additional guidance on immigration enforcement. He stressed the importance of tracking individuals with arrest warrants and ensuring that they are removed from the country.
In conclusion, Sheriff Hardwick urged elected officials to think outside the box and take proactive measures in addressing immigration issues. He emphasized the need for preparedness and collaboration with federal partners to effectively combat illegal activities. The efforts of St. Johns County serve as an example of proactive law enforcement in addressing immigration challenges.
