County in Maryland Endorses Resolution for Complete Support of ICE and DHS

Maryland County Supports DHS and ICE

Officials in Washington County, Maryland, have passed a resolution showing “full support” for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and other related law enforcement bodies. This decision was made by the Washington County Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday morning.

The resolution emphasizes the importance of collaboration among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to guarantee the safety and welfare of all citizens and lawful residents. It is noted that this resolution “takes effect immediately upon adoption.”

The document states, “The Washington County Board of County Commissioners hereby declares its intent to assist DHS and ICE in enforcing our nation’s borders, protecting the integrity of our immigration system, and ensuring that all persons within our jurisdictions are treated with dignity and compassion.”

Specific details of the resolution include:

Full support for the efforts of DHS and ICE, alongside local law enforcement, aimed at maintaining public safety and adhering to the rule of law.

Encouragement for ongoing cooperation among various law enforcement agencies to ensure community welfare and safety.

A declaration of intent to assist DHS and ICE in border enforcement and immigration integrity while promoting respectful treatment of all individuals.

The resolution is effective immediately and copies will be forwarded to DHS, ICE, and local law enforcement to demonstrate support for their mission.

The approval of this resolution follows reports that DHS has purchased a warehouse near Hagerstown for over $100 million.

In a letter dated February 6, Maryland Governor Wes Moore expressed concerns over plans to establish a new ICE facility in this new warehouse. He argued that federal acquisition of the property could lead to a “significant loss of economic opportunity,” not just for Western Maryland but for the state as a whole, citing a need for transparency in the acquisition process.

The Governor pointed out that the warehouse, originally planned as a commercial distribution center during the COVID-19 pandemic, plays a crucial role in the local economy, supporting around 4,000 jobs and generating significant investments. Moore mentioned that Washington County’s warehouse facilities are vital to manufacturing, logistics, and distribution in the area.