Trump’s DHS Expands Local Law Enforcement Partnerships
President Donald Trump’s Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been forming agreements with numerous local police and sheriff’s offices to aid Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in apprehending undocumented immigrants.
This week, DHS revealed a staggering increase of over 600% in the 287(g) agreements with law enforcement agencies nationwide. These agreements enable local police to easily identify individuals who commit crimes while imprisoned and swiftly transfer them to ICE agents for arrest and deportation.
When Trump assumed office in January, there were 135 law enforcement agencies under the 287(g) contract with ICE. Now, nearly 960 agencies are engaged in similar agreements to assist ICE in detaining undocumented immigrants.
Moreover, DHS Executive Director Kristi Noem has launched a new initiative to encourage even more police departments and sheriff’s offices to enter into 287(g) contracts. This initiative primarily involves supporting ICE’s outreach, offering financial incentives for quarterly performance, and covering salaries and benefits for these agencies.
ICE Deputy Director Madison Xiahan credited this initiative to Trump’s significant legislation.
“ICE is not only expanding its partnerships with state and local law enforcement but is also working to remove serious offenders such as murderers, gang members, and sex offenders,” Xiahan stated.
She added:
“With the support of this legislation, ICE has introduced a refund program for agencies collaborating with DHS to enhance safety in America. All state and local agencies are welcome to sign a 287(g) contract. Joining forces with ICE not only opens up these substantial refund opportunities but also integrates you into a national effort for the safety of American families.”
According to reports, former President Joe Biden’s DHS Secretary, Alejandro Mayorkas, attempted to dismantle the 287(g) program, citing concerns over its “harmful practices” and instances of extensive “abuse.”
One notable case involved the termination of an agreement in Bristol County, Massachusetts, which allowed ICE to gain custody of undocumented immigrants charged with serious offenses, including attempted murder and sexual crimes against children.
