Florida’s Mass Deportation Efforts Intensify
In Tampa, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has unveiled new initiatives aimed at enhancing the state’s role in supporting the Trump administration’s mass deportation strategies.
During the announcement, DeSantis indicated that Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) troopers have been sworn in as special Deputy U.S. marshals. This allows these troopers to directly apprehend certain undocumented immigrants, provided they have a warrant, without needing a federal immigration agency’s involvement.
He commented, “This is an additional layer of privileges that will be very useful in the future.” He noted that these troopers can undertake operations similar to immigration officials in detaining undocumented individuals until they are removed.
Furthermore, DeSantis mentioned that Florida would also be aiding in the transport of undocumented immigrants out of the country.
Dave Kerner, who oversees the Florida Highway Safety and Automobile Division, emphasized to Blaze Media that this initiative serves as a warning to undocumented immigrants in the state—stating, “There’s no place to hide in Florida. If you are here illegally, especially with a violent felony history or an active deportation order, you’re likely to engage with state authorities.”
Kerner explained that the number of FHP troopers acting as Deputy U.S. marshals will remain constant for now. He added they can enter homes or other locations where someone might be hiding to enforce warrants.
Kerner echoed DeSantis’s call for more detention space, which is a significant obstacle for immigration enforcement, limiting the number of detainees. Florida is providing federal options to enhance these capabilities.
Larry Keefe, director of the Florida State Committee on Immigration and Enforcement, noted that the Trump administration considers Florida a national model for its immigration efforts, highlighting the success of Operation Tidal Wave, a collaboration between state and federal law enforcement. Notably, Florida is responsible for over half of the 287(g) agreements nationwide.
